Non-Academic Supports and Enrichment for Military-Connected Students
Military-connected students benefit from more than just academic support; they thrive when given opportunities to grow socially, emotionally, and creatively. This section highlights programs and activities that foster leadership, resilience, connection, and personal development outside the classroom. These resources are designed to help military youth build community, express themselves, and navigate the unique challenges of military life.
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🌱 Youth Development & Enrichment Programs
- 4-H Military Partnerships | A nationwide initiative that provides military-connected youth with consistent, positive youth development experiences. Through hands-on learning, leadership training, and community engagement, 4-H helps young people thrive despite the challenges of military life.
- Army Youth Program in Your Neighborhood (AYPN) | A collaboration between the U.S. Army and the Boys & Girls Club of Central Texas, AYPN offers afterschool programs for middle school students focused on leadership, education, life skills, arts, and recreation. Check with your local school or club for availability.
- Boys & Girls Club of America - Military Partnerships | Offers youth development programs tailored to the needs of military children, providing a safe and supportive environment for growth and connection.
- Communities In Schools (CIS) of Texas | Delivers individualized case management and wraparound services to students, including military-connected youth, through strong community partnerships.
💬 Peer Connection & Expression
- Empowering the Military Teen | Bloom | A creative platform built by and for military teens. Bloom offers blog posts, art, videos, and poetry that reflect the voices and experiences of military-connected youth.
🏕️ Camps, Retreats & Family Support
- Operation Purple Programs | National Military Family Association (NMFA) | Provides free camps, retreats, and healing adventures for military families to reconnect and recharge.
- Our Military Kids | Grants for extracurricular activities and tutoring for children of deployed National Guard and Reserve members, and children of wounded warriors.
📺 Resources for Young Children
- Sesame Street - Military Families Resources for Young Children | Offers videos, activities, and tools to help young children understand and cope with military life transitions, including deployment and reintegration.