Congratulations! You’ve made it on the other side of your PCS. 

If you’re anything like me after another move, you may have a house full of boxes (ugh), are adjusting to a new time zone, and need a breather and maybe some chocolate.

You’ve earned a nap. Quick… go grab one and then come back and finish reading this blog post. Or take this opportunity to lay on the couch and scroll. 

Ok, let’s start again. 

You’ve made it to your new location and are now on your way to integrating into your new environment. I know it’s daunting. But you’re a military spouse… you’re good at this! Or you can fake it till you make it.

Consider this your survival guide for kickstarting your family’s new assignment. You’re in charge of your story. Now it’s time to choose your own adventure. 

Start here.

Are you overwhelmed and feel like you have no sense of home or community? The USO is an excellent starting point for meeting new people and finding a support system when you’re far away from your family and friends. 

You may be thinking, why the USO? Trust me on this. Here are four effective ways to get immersed in your new community, including ways to involve your furry friends!

1. Find some “me” time. 

Did you know the USO has programming specifically designed for military spouses and families?

We have a whole team — that includes yours truly — dedicated to helping MilSpouses like you wherever service takes you. 

A staple of our military spouse  programming is USO Coffee Connections, where you can find a community of friends who understand what you’re going through, especially during the most difficult moments.

A Fort Riley Army spouse, Ashley, discovered Coffee Connections just before her husband was about to deploy and wanted to meet new friends. The connections she made became a second family.

We encourage you to do the same. Find your people with similar interests. All things crafts, books, charcuterie boards, board games, online gaming, and more: The USO has activities and programs for everyone. Even crazy people who like to exercise. 

2. Put yourself out there.

Are you a social butterfly or do you prefer to be a wallflower? Either way, we encourage you to get out there and let your guard down. The USO is where the party’s at! 

USO Centers frequently host events that bring the military community together. They can be a great way to meet new people and build friendships. Bonus tip: Take your kids with you. They’re good buffers and naturals at making friends.

Across the world, we’ve hosted fun and unique events like Succulents and Smores, Cornhole Hour, Toddler Time, and Water Wars. (And for my introvert friends, you can always leave early. Just commit to trying it. I have a strong feeling you’ll like it though!) 

There’s also plenty of Military Virtual Programming events with celebrities and entertainers so you can tune in wherever you are. Just in the past couple of months alone, we’ve spotted Chris Pratt, Kevin Bacon, Lindsey Vonn, Vanessa Lachey, and Wilmer Valderrama.

Check out our other MVP events and workshops to help you bolster your employment, education, and wellness needs while you’re at it. Take a look here.

3. Volunteer and get out of the house.

I don’t need to tell you that it can be incredibly isolating to be a MilSpouse. Volunteering with the USO gives military spouses an opportunity to bond with others going through the same challenges, while providing a way to give back to your local military community. 

The USO offers flexible volunteer opportunities that suit different interests and schedules. Focusing on helping others has personally helped me, and I know it can help you too. As you integrate into your new installation, you can even help the next MilSpouse following in your footsteps. 

A Navy spouse, Erika, at Naval Support Activity Naples found that she was lacking a sense of purpose and routine after her first month in Italy. She decided to jump in with the USO to get something predictable on her schedule. 

Erika found it to be a rewarding experience and said, “An act of service is the most impactful work you can do, not only for the receiver, but [also] for yourself emotionally and mentally. It is powerful in healing, it is humbling, it is a form of gratitude, and fills your heart. If you want to learn more about yourself and grow, volunteer.”

4. Get your pups involved.

Pets, especially dogs, are great icebreakers and can play a big role in helping you connect with others. The USO recognizes this and offers opportunities to include your furry friends. 

Both dogs and handlers are considered volunteers. Consider joining as a team. Volunteering together allows you and your dog to provide comfort and companionship to service members and other military families. Win-win!

The USO Canine Program includes therapy dogs, family pets, and military working dog programs. Involving canine family members in programs enables families like yours to participate more fully in USO activities and feel connected to your community. Your pup can even add it to their resume!

Write your own story.

By taking advantage of USO resources, you can build a supportive network and make the most of your new environment. Embrace these opportunities. 

You’ll find that transitioning to a new community, while really overwhelming and intimidating at times, can be an extremely rewarding and enriching experience. 

Best of luck in your new adventure and remember to have fun!

*Written by Trish Rider

Trish Rider is a proud Air Force spouse stationed in Japan. She is Mom of one little boy and two fur babies.

She serves as the Program Manager for Military Spouse and Family Programs at the USO.

For more posts from the USO, Visit our M:M EXPERT Blog Page.