A New Spin on Deployment Support from Marine Corps Family Team Building
Providing valuable resources and skills to navigate military life is a key part of the Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) mission. That’s why the Deployed Spouse Wellness Series was created by Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) -- supporting military spouses is at the heart of what they do!
Sharon Billings-Alomari, MCCS MCFTB Trainer, said, “Military spouses wear many hats – partner, parent, employee, and more. When a spouse deploys, it adds an extra layer of stress to existing demands and leaves little room for room for self-care. However, the saying that you can’t pour from an empty cup is true!”
Recognizing the need for additional support, she developed the Deployed Spouse Wellness Series. “We love empowering this community! Each month, our goal is to offer free, valuable resources to support spouses and enhance their overall well-being. Through creative workshops like crafting and practical workshops like stress management, spouses can connect with their community, learn useful skills, and rejuvenate their spirits,” Billings-Alomari shared.
Past workshops have included jewelry making, holiday wreaths, and painting, which have enabled participants to not only explore their creative side, but also to form friendships and build a support network within the group. As the series continues to evolve, upcoming sessions will include mindfulness practices, fitness routines, and functional skills to help spouses navigate the challenges of military life during a deployment and beyond.
On January 30, MCFTB is partnering with the MCCS Family Member Employment Assistance Program (FMEAP) to host a resume writing workshop just for spouses. Experts from FMEAP will share practical advice for military spouses, such as how to translate other experiences, like volunteering, into compelling skills to catch a recruiter's eye. Whether you're entering the job market for the first time or a seasoned professional looking for a new opportunity, this workshop is not to be missed!
To register for this free workshop, visit https://lejeunenewriver.usmc-mccs.org/marine-family-support/military-family-life/marine-corps-family-team-building-training?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D171777410.