We look forward to Susan sharing more information and resources that benefit our families.
As Director of Community Engagement with The Sugar Bear Foundation, my focus has been to connect our Gold Star/Surviving Spouses with meaningful resources, information, opportunities and organizations that can make a difference in the lives of our families. Here are just some of the programs that I have interfaced with over the past two months- and all of them are here to serve you. If you haven’t already, please check them out- you’ll be glad you did! Community Cultivator, Department of War Survivor Symposium, VA Survivor Series, Military OneSource, VA Office of Survivor Assistance, TAPS, and the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. These resources provide a wealth of information and assistance on survivor benefits, financial planning, healthcare, caregiver-to-survivor transitions, estate planning, and educational assistance.
Interesting takeaway #1: Did you know that TSA Pre-Check is now free for Survivor Families?
Interesting takeaway #2: Webinar replays like this one on Empowering Military Survivors: Navigating Financial Decisions and Benefits are useful tools anytime of the day or night.
I’m also working to identify opportunities for career development and professional networking for Sugar Bear Foundation’s Gold Star/Surviving Spouses. Through Community Cultivator, I’ve had the opportunity to connect both virtually and in-person (here in San Diego) with organizations such as RSM, Leidos and Hiring Our Heroes. Learning about “military spouse friendly” companies, employment initiatives, fellowships, mentorship, and career opportunities has been extremely beneficial. These conversations help me better understand what is available and the importance of sharing these opportunities with our Sugar Bear community.
Interesting takeaway #3: Both RSM and Leidos want you to add “military spouse” to your resume so they can identify you quickly and assist immediately.
Interesting takeaway #4: RSM curates training fellowships for individual spouses and 98% of fellowships end with a full-time employment offer.