Over the last 3 years, I have found my own strength in military life through volunteer service to the local military community. The great thing about Fort Bragg is that there are ample opportunities to volunteer, no matter what your schedule may be. Many special events need volunteers throughout the year, while other organizations simply need that once per year volunteer assistance.

Some of my most memorable volunteer experiences have been at special events across Fort Bragg. Below are seven amazing opportunities to volunteer at the installation.

1-USO of NC at Fort Bragg

The USO of NC has a location on the 1st floor of the Soldier Support Center. They have ample special events for soldiers, families, spouses, and children throughout the year. They are always looking for regular volunteers and they do a tremendous job in building morale and supporting military families. To learn more about volunteering with the USO on a regular basis, click here.

2-Fort Bragg Family & MWR

The Fort Bragg Army Morale, Wellness, & Recreation department hosts many events across Fort Bragg throughout the year including monthly 5K’s that begin in the Spring and end in the Fall. They also offer many opportunities for volunteerism throughout the year. For more information, click here.

3-Run, Honor, Remember

This display is set up every weekend before All American Week at Fort Bragg, which falls the weekend before Memorial Day. I can not describe how touching it is to be a part of the set up crew and to see this memorial. Every boot has a name and a picture that represents a service member’s life lost since 9/11. This year, over 7,500 boots were set up at Hendricks Stadium. It’s a powerful reminder of the many sacrifices service members have made. To get involved, be on the lookout early May each year for details.

4-All American Marathon

If you aren’t able to partake in running the 5K, Mike to Mike half marathon, or the All American Marathon, then consider volunteering for this powerful and patriotic event that takes place every March. There are water stations, check in, finish line, and so many more areas to volunteer. I have been both a participant and a volunteer. Both are extremely memorable and it is a race that you will never forget.

5-Operation Homefront’s Back to School Brigade

Every August, Operation Homefront stops through Fort Bragg to deliver backpacks for K-12 military kids. They always need volunteers to both stuff the backpacks with supplies and hand them out. They also allow older children to volunteer with parental supervision. Be on the lookout for more details on Operation Homefront’s homepage.

6-Deployed Love Holiday Minis

Local photographers and volunteers band together to offer military families with a deployed family member a 20 minute photo session in the local community. Volunteers are needed to photograph, run the check in, and to walk attendees to meet their photographer on location. This event usually happens in the Fall of each year. More information can be found by clicking here.

7-Support Military Spouses Care Package Delivery

Twice per year, usually May & December, the faith-based organization Support Military Spouses delivers care packages to military spouses and children. This event takes place in a local church and volunteers are always appreciated.

Fort Bragg provides many opportunities for volunteers. My hope is that this list will give you information and inspiration to find a volunteer opportunity that is the right fit for you. You can never wrong giving back to your local community and you will be surprised at the many positive benefits volunteering can offer. It will truly enrich your life in a multitude of ways as it has mine.

© Strength 4 Spouses LLC, 2019.