Each November, ASYMCA celebrates Military Family Month to demonstrate the nation’s support for and commitment to the families of military personnel. With hundreds of thousands of service members deployed overseas, recognizing the daily sacrifices made by military families has never been more important.

Woman’s Day Drive
During this year’s Military Family Month, ASYMCA is partnering with Woman’s Day magazine for the fourth year in a row to sponsor a holiday drive. All donations are used to purchase toys and holiday food baskets for military families in need. The drive has resulted in contributions totaling more than $720,000 from over 6,900 generous donors.

Art and Essay Contest
Every year during Military Family Month, ASYMCA launches its annual art and essay contests, sponsored by GEICO Direct and Lockheed Martin, for children of active duty and retired military personnel and Department of Defense civilians. First and second place winners receive a U.S. savings bond.

Program Ideas
In light of the fact that ongoing overseas conflicts continue to affect our U.S. soldiers and their families, ASYMCA believes that extra effort must be exercised this year to recognize the many sacrifices our military families make. We encourage your organization to develop programs that celebrate Military Family Month. One simple way to honor an American military family is by presenting them with an ASYMCA certificate.

Support Military Families
Americans should show their support for our military personnel and their families throughout the year, not just in November. You can help any time by making a financial contribution, or by volunteering your time to help mentor, tutor, or provide general administrative services if you live near an ASYMCA branch. Contact your local ASYMCA branch or ASYMCA’s national headquarters in Alexandria, Va., to find out how you can make a difference.