From a young age, I learned the power of kindness and the importance of giving back. My mom would take me to volunteer opportunities, showing me firsthand that even small acts of generosity could make a big difference. She always reminded me that one day we, too, might need a helping hand.

That lesson stayed with me, shaping my passion for spreading goodness whenever I can. 

One of my most memorable experiences volunteering with the USO was on Christmas morning serving breakfast at the USO Warrior Center to the wounded, ill, and injured service members staying at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. 

These men and women were away from their families during the holidays, but they were so incredibly thankful to spend time with USO staff and volunteers over a warm meal and joyful conversations. 

For a moment, these service members didn’t have to think about being at the hospital or away from their families, they were able to focus on the connections we were all making and the laughter, smiles, and hugs we all shared. 

I’ve found that one of the most rewarding and fulfilling ways to serve others is through volunteering.

It’s a chance to jump in, give back, and find connection.

Embarking on a volunteer journey with the USO is an invitation to be part of something greater, where every act of kindness strengthens the fabric of the military family.

Whether you’re welcoming service members and their families at the airport, assembling care packages, or offering a helping hand at a USO location or event, your time and involvement can make a lasting impact – in your own life, too.

Why Volunteering Matters

April is National Volunteer Month, and the USO has more than 20,000 reasons to be thankful.

These 20,000-plus USO volunteers contributed 1.2 million hours just last year. In 2024, 97% of USO volunteers agreed that they were satisfied with their volunteer experience and were looking forward to giving even more of their time in the future.

Volunteering is more than just an act of service. It’s a chance to engage with your local military community wherever you are and create bonds with others who understand the military lifestyle. 

As a military spouse, I know it’s easy to feel isolated. By joining the USO as a volunteer, you become part of a supportive network of people who share similar experiences.

Volunteering also provides personal benefits, such as building friendships, gaining a sense of purpose, developing new skills, and enhancing your mental well-being. 

Volunteer Opportunities

As a USO volunteer, you can provide hospitality, care, and kindness towards military service members and their families near you. The USO offers various ways for military spouses to get involved:

*Welcoming Service Members and Their Families

USO airport centers and lounges provide comfort and support to traveling service members and their loved ones. Volunteering at these centers allows military spouses to offer a warm welcome, provide refreshments, and assist with travel logistics.

*Supporting USO Events and Programs

From care package assembly to holiday events and morale-boosting activities, USO volunteers help bring joy and comfort to service members and their families. These events provide opportunities to engage with other spouses while contributing to the well-being of the military community.

*Assisting with Deployment and Homecoming Support

USO volunteers help ease the process of deployments by offering support at send-off and homecoming events, ensuring service members and their families feel appreciated and connected.

Hear From Fellow Military Spouses

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 it fills your heart. If you want to learn more about yourself and grow, volunteer.”

Natalie, an Air Force spouse, shared her perspective on offering acts of service, friendship, and compassion at Fort Cavazos. Her husband was gone for 23 out of the 38 months they lived there and built an incredibly supportive community – which started by her initiating and serving others. 

“There are moments in life when we realize that, although it might seem we’re doing something simple, we’re actually connected to something much bigger, something much more meaningful. It’s about the DNA that connects me to all military spouses. It’s about the great calling we have to serve each other, support each other, and strengthen each other.”

You Can Even Volunteer with Your Dog

Hate the thought of leaving your cuddly pet behind while you step out to volunteer? 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. 

The USO Canine Program includes therapy dogs, family pets, and military working dog programs. Volunteering together allows you and your dog to provide comfort and companionship to service members and other military families.

How to Get Involved

Becoming a USO volunteer is easy! Visit the USO’s official website to find volunteer opportunities near you. There are more than 250 USO locations throughout the United States and around the world. Find your nearest USO center by searching our map. If you do not see a USO center near you, please email volunteers@uso.org.

The USO offers military spouses flexible opportunities, accommodating various interests and schedules, ensuring that each volunteer can find a position that aligns with their passions and availability. There’s a place for everyone. 

So why not take the first step today? Join the USO volunteer team and be part of something bigger than yourself.

-Written by Nicole Vogel

Nicole Vogel is a proud Air Force spouse, mom of two, and Senior Manager of Military Spouse and Family Programs at the USO. To read more about the USO and the services they provide in the military community, visit their website, or check out their MM Author Page.