Whether you just finished your fifth packout or haven’t even unpacked the last few boxes from your first PCS— you’re not alone. While not all of our experiences will be exactly the same, there is a level of familiarity we can all connect on. We at Secure Families Initiative believe that new spouses should have a welcoming community, one that opens the door to feeling empowered, being recognized as an individual—not solely a military spouse, and to be part of supporting each other in a space where they can truly be heard while navigating the beginnings of this military life.
Stationed and Social was created for connection among those new to military life. First, let’s acknowledge that we aren’t only looking to connect with people JUST like us; Stationed and Social is built as an easygoing, intentional, and inclusive space. Specifically, it connects spouses who lack a military community, proper representation, or local connections, and for those looking to be part of their greater military-spouse community on their own terms.
We want to celebrate your lived experiences and start conversations around advocacy for each other and what we go through, because we believe you shouldn’t have to face those many mil-spouse firsts on your own. It’s a chance to learn from those who may have already gone through what’s next for you.
I am speaking fully from experience when I say that connecting with other military spouses and families is hard. Moving and settling in presents layers of difficulty, and each move differs. We sometimes weigh if going to the *insert command name* spouse coffee is worth it! I have boxes in my garage that I didn’t feel were worth opening because of the amount of time we would be at this duty station. Or, we may arrive somewhere new, our spouses may be deployed, and we might not have an existing community in place.
Connecting and putting in the work for a friendship can sometimes not feel worth it when you know you’re only somewhere temporarily. A plus with Stationed and Social? We get to all move around together, with each other. You get to connect with those outside of your immediate circle—CONUS and OCONUS!
We like to think that Stationed and Social is different. It’s not command-sponsored, and it’s not limited to rank, branch, or location. We simply share a common feeling and understanding of military life.
So when it comes to our times of connection: What’s the Vibe?
Our times of connection will always be an inclusive, shared time where you can be yourself, speak from your diverse experiences, ask the questions, and truly listen to others. We will keep things casual and easygoing, yet intentional. We want to celebrate the wins and connect on the hard stuff with folks who get it. Our goal for this cohort is to get these much-needed conversations started, providing a laid-back space that fosters real connection and meaningful conversations.
We can’t wait to connect with you.
Sign up to stay in the loop about when our virtual meetings take off, and where our next community pop-up will be!
Note from the Community Ambassador: We are not the professionals of mil-life nor have all the answers, or have had every experience as others. Let this program open the door to connections among one another, get conversations started, and further gain insight within our community and to each other.
