The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), a national organization providing compassionate care to those grieving the death of a military loved one, is looking for active duty, reserve, National Guard and Veteran community members to serve as supportive companions to children of America’s fallen military heroes at the 28th Annual National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, May 26 – 30 in Arlington, Virginia.
Surviving children from across the country, ages 5 – 18, will come together and connect with other children who have experienced similar losses – creating lasting friendships, learning coping skills and honoring their fallen service members. At TAPS, military mentor companionship for children grieving the death of a military family member is the foundation of a caring TAPS family and Good Grief Camp programming. Military mentors are needed to pair with these children and work in small groups facilitated by an experienced leader.
Volunteering as a military mentor has a tremendous impact on surviving children. The one-on-one time with a military mentor gives children and teens the companionship and support needed to connect with their peers and engage in activities. Individual pairing with military mentors also signals to each child that they are worthy of the time and attention of others and maintains their connection to the military community. Compassionate and caring companionship from military mentors builds resilience, develops leadership skills and improves the healing process through positive role modeling. Most importantly, it creates hope.
TAPS understands that many of our Nation’s service members and Veterans are survivors, too, having experienced the traumatic loss of a battle buddy. While TAPS provides a safe and supportive place of healing for surviving families, it also offers a healthy, supportive environment for our military mentors, where service members and Veterans can learn to effectively express their grief and process emotions alongside their mentees as well as among their peers.
“We don’t get to choose tragedy, but we do get to choose healing, and I am very proud to be healing with TAPS,” said retired Air Force Master Sgt. and TAPS 2020 Military Mentor of the Year, Melissa Simpson.
Learn more about becoming a TAPS Military Mentor for a child grieving the loss of a military loved one at the 28th Annual National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, or other events throughout the year, by visiting taps.org/militarymentor. Additional questions can be directed to the TAPS Youth Programs Team at mentors@taps.org or 800.959.TAPS (8277).
The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Verify information with the organization offering.
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Veteran, still willing to serve!
TAPS has events throughout the country during th e year. There was an event in Columbus this past September. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Hi, I’m a 100% disabled veteran from the Army and would love to assist any your kids through the grieving prosses, I’m in southern California.
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am a veteran and a pastor, in Fayetteville, NC. and I would love to help…
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Link to Apply as a Mentor, the response from the Military community is amazing to see.
I am a vet who would love to help.
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I would love to mentor and be a part of this great program. I am a retired from the U.S Army and have served in the Airforce also. As a 5 time deploying Soldier, I have compassion for all Veterans and their families.
Hi Lisa! I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I AM A VIET NAM VET I EARNED 2 BRONZE STAR HONORS. I WOULD LOVE TO ASSIST WITH KIDS AND ADULTS WITH THE LOSS OF FAMILY MEMBERS
Hi Edward. Thank you for your service. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am a disabled Veteran and would like to volunteer. I live in the Santa Clarita California. If I can be of any assistance please reach out to me.
Hi Anthony. TAPS has events in California most years. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am a Veteran and reside in Cartersville, Ga I am a survivor of two losses, My father and Son. I will be more than happy to volunteer.
I’m sorry for your losses Charles. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Am willing Columbus NE.. Paul; Hicks 59 yrs old
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I will glady serve as mentor. I live in the Fort Collins Area. 90525, Retired Navy Physician Assistant. 20 years of service.
Thanks for your service Mac. TAPS has events regularly in Colorado. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
STEVE some people aren’t as smart as you in this matter!! That does not make them dumb they wnat more answers from chat,and they might be the best of the best in America so you should dial it back a little and give everyone some space…. GOD will love you more for this……..Though shall not judge GOD BLESS AMERICA
A Marine veteran, I have done mentoring through Big Brothers and would like to volunteer to be a mentor. Please have the right party contact me for direction on this. Thanks much
Thanks for your service Dan. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I see dozens of comments from people wanting to find out how to become a volunteer for this program but what concerns me is the inability to follow simple directions. It clearly states at the end of this article what you need to do to sign up and who you need to contact to get your questions answered.
Get off it Steve. Let people ask their questions without your judgment. Have a great day.
You’re correct. Same thing happens with the VA; it’s not perfect but often times people don’t follow simple directions and then blame the system.
I am a recently retired pediatric dentist who served in the Navy Dental Corps. Also served as a civilian contractor at an Army base in Germany where I treated and interacted with many children who had lost a parent or who were struggling with a parent’s multiple deployments. I felt privileged to spend a little extra time getting to know and becoming a friend to these brave little guys and gals.
I have the time and would be glad to mentor and help some more.
Thanks for your service Carl! I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I reside in southern California And would like to
Volunteer . Usmc server in 80’s
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
How do apply to become a mentor? I am very interested. I am a USMC veteran, work with at-risk children to prevent drug use, and currently earning my MBA in university. I would love to be a mentor.
Did you notice at the end of the article it tells you who to contact to become a volunteer?
Steve, Are you having a bad day? Do you need a hug? Why not use your energy in a positive manner and be part of the solution instead of being snarky? If you want to help, then stay positive. The volunteers whom you are directing your snark at, are volunteers that want to be a part of the solution. Get on board – and go for a run or do some meditation brother.
Steve, this is how you become part of the solution. Please use the following contact information to become a volunteer: Learn more about becoming a TAPS Military Mentor for a child grieving the loss of a military loved one at the 28th Annual National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, or other events throughout the year, by visiting taps.org/militarymentor. Additional questions can be directed to the TAPS Youth Programs Team at mentors@taps.org or 800.959.TAPS (8277).
Trying the passive aggressive tact this time – huh, Steve? Why not just direct people in the right direction instead of showing contempt. So what if they didn’t notice the notice. They’re looking to volunteer – help them!
Learn more about becoming a TAPS Military Mentor for a child grieving the loss of a military loved one at the 28th Annual National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, or other events throughout the year, by visiting taps.org/militarymentor. Additional questions can be directed to the TAPS Youth Programs Team at mentors@taps.org or 800.959.TAPS (8277).
Thanks for your service Christina and desire to help these kids! I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am a disabled veteran and a retired Navy chief. I have a Master’s degree in Biblical Counseling. I leave in East-Central Florida. It would be my pleasure to help. I have a non-profit organization specializing in working with the youths. It is an assignment from God.
Thanks for your service Karl. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Thanks for the opportunity. I am unable to come this year.
I am a 100% DAV, and also a Stephens Minister. It would bring me pleasure to mentor a youngster in need. r/
J A Anderson, Sr., PhD, USAF (Ret)
Thanks for your service James and desire to serve these kids. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I have a couple of homes in Kauai Hawaii that would be ideal for grieving family members of deceased service members.
Please contact me if there is any interest.
Aloha,
Robert Peterson
That sounds wonderful. What do they rent for? How close to the ocean? My husband died a 100% disabled. It was devastating. He was such a good man and missed terribly. I lost two sons also so there are just my daughter and her children, they could use a mentor in there life they have been through a lot but have never had a real male mentor. I’m in SC near Fort Jackson I believe I’m new to the area. Please get in touch and let me know if there are any mentors here. It would be such a blessing to them.
Hi, I just read that TAPS is looking for Veterans to serve as supportive companions to children of America’s fallen military at the 28th Annual National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, May 26 – 30 in Arlington, Virginia.
As it happens I will be in New Jersey for a week that overlaps this time and would be happy to help. My sister lives in Rockville, MD, so I have a place to stay nearby.
I am an R.N. who is certified in hypnosis, NLP, and have worked as a nurse for many years on one of the PHS mental health disaster teams.
CDR Cahn, retired USPHS
Carolyn, TAPS has Good Grief Camps throughout the year and around the country. There’s plenty of opportunity to get involved and support these kiddos. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I’m able to get involved in your program
USAF- 1964/69, 65/66-Nam
Thanks for your service Joseph. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am a 100% disabled veteran. I was an NCO in the Marine Corps and an Army Infantry Officer, Special Forces qualified. I served in Vietnam with CCC, MACV-SOG where I lost my best friend, 3 members of my OCS class, and my platoon sergeant. I also lost my father when I was 2 months old on 18Sep43, my father was in the Navy. I would be more than willing to talk to, interface with, or do anything else needed to help these children.
Stephen, I’m sorry for your losses. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Does this Program have any support for women grieving loss from a forced abortion with DV involved while in the military and married to an abusive service member?
Available whenever needed in south MS and have others willing to assist.
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I’m Minister Kerry Logan Dixon Willing to assist anytime
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I would be willing to help if I’m available. I retired in 1993 from the Army after 21 years of service.
Thanks for your service Bob. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Would be more than happy to mentor or share time with any child that has lost a mom or dad while serving.
Thanks William. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am a Grief Recovery Method Specialist, certified by The Grief Recovery Institute. One of our programs is Helping Children With Loss. It teaches adults how to help children who have experienced loss of any kind. I can teach this four-session class online to adults. It is based on the book “When Children Grieve”, by John Janes, Russel Friedman and Leslie Landon Matthews. See the website below, and see Our Programs for the Helping Children With Loss program.
Currently I am a substitute school teacher for Sacramento City Unified School District. I am a USAF Vietnam Vet.
Thanks for your service Brian. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I’m interested in mentoring.
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I live in Tennessee do they have anything at my location in Crossville Tennessee
TAPS has events throughout the country each year. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I would like to participate!
Paul E. Doyle
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I would love to volunteer for this program, do you need assistance in Colorado Springs?
TAPS frequently has in events in Colorado! I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
What a wonderful venue to reach out to grieving children from all walks of life and engage with the encouragement they may need to begin accepting the things they can in a positive way! Good work, TAPS!
I would like to know how to become a TAPS mentor.
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am interested in volunteering as a mentor for the program. I am Army veteran, female, Africa-American if that makes a difference
Thanks for your service Joyce! I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
should not be limited to those under 18 years old. See: https://www.tcpalm.com/…/navy-seal-memorial…/7237035002/
Good Grief Camp is limited to kids under 18. However, TAPS has numerous programs for adult survivors and families. Please visit http://www.taps.org to learn about the multitude of adult programs.
I was part of a team of EFT(emotionalfreedomtechniques) consultants who met with veterans at Mchord and Lewis bases who were experiencing PTSD for severals years. at the Seattle va I facilitated a group of vets with mental challenges at taught Mindfulness meditation . I am a certified clinical hypnotherapist and was a Score Mentor with the SBA office in Seattle. would love to be of service to these kids. I’m also a Master golf instructor
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am on board with this and would like to help.
Carl Mustari USMC Retired GySgt
Thanks for your service Gunny! I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Help surface warfare operator candidates, there’s a warrior within that finds dishonor after being subdued in ways that are quietly shown, I lost my mentor to a failed surface warfare operator training course on active duty status. It was harmful in the community I was with, my team felt the blow and like water it had its way. Cognitive commune by definition
I would like to assist if I can. How/who do I contact to help local children in my area?
TAPS is a national program that sponsors events throughout the country. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
please send me more information about TAPS in the Portland OR area.
TAPS has events around the country each year. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Hello my name is Epmetrius Harris I served 4years in the Army. My sister did 20years in the Army. My grandfather was a marine and both uncles serving in the Army. I understand what families go through. I love helping people. I have a lot of experience in motivating kids, adults and keeping them positive. I’m also a minister.
Thank you and your family for your collective service. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Hi. I walk with a walker, so i can work remotely only. HOWEVER, I do have Masters Degree in Psychology. Also, I am of grandma -age, which may be of comfort to a child. It is my belief I can help.
Kin d regards,
Ann Ingram
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I retired after 50 years as a pediatrician 2 years ago. I was in the navy from 1968 until 1976(Vietnam period) I have lots of experience with grief counseling both in and out of my military experience. I would love to offer my time and experience.
Thank you for your service Robert. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am very very interested in mentoring children I am a veteran also I am disabled but I am physically able and mentally able to assist children in grieving families.
John, I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Do you pay for the transportation to Virginia?
I’m retired and would like to help. Thanks ♂️
Transportation to events is not covered. However, there are events all over the country. You maybe closer than you think! I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Yes I would love to be a mentor.
SFC Retired Espino
Thank you for your service Eugene. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Been volunteering with them since 2014. Its a great cause, and trust me, most mentors get way more out of it than they ever expect!
That’s right Allen!
Want to help anyone
Surgeon/Major
Robert Bryan Freeman MD
Am interested in helping anyone.
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Can’t make it to Virginia, but why can’t you start a long term program akin to Big Brothers, Big Sisters? If there is someone in my area, I would be honored to do that.
Jim Gallup
New Mexico
James, there are events around the country. Many mentors develope lifelong relationships with their mentees. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
The foster parent community would be a perfect connection for this event. Many foster parents have history with caring for children with deceased parents.
I’m in, just tell me when and where. Semper Fi.
Definitely visit the website Lemore. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I would be willing to help. I am currently in Northern Colorado but will be moving to Northern Arizona late this year. I am a Vietnam Vet, father of 2 wonderful boys, grandfather for 5 increasable grandchildren. Our kids are the future I will be buried someday soon but would like to be a mentor to those that need me.
Thank you Jerry. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am an Army Vet in the south west suburbs of Illinois and it would be an honor and my pleasure to assist any way that I can with children or adults that have suffered a loss. Google Villa Park fire 2012 Jan 17th to see one of my experiences with losses
Thanks for service Sheila. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Husband retired Army after 20 yrs in “81, pay was low then, I worked and we chose not to have a family. Many were on food stamps in housing area, even w/ two kids. Not an ideal family lifestyle either, esp for navy people as father is gone on assignments esp. submarine duty. Combat duty (during Viet Nam ) seeing caskets unloaded on nightly news , motivated that decision.
That sounds great I am interested in volunteering.
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I’m retired Marine in Jacksonville NC. I own Martial Arts schools in Jacksonville and Wilmington NC. If there are kids I can help in those areas. James Wright
Thanks for your service James. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
This Nam Vet would be honored to help in North West Arkansas!
Thanks Randy! I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am a Vet. Retired from public service . Be happy to help out , so call on me .
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am from Saint Louis, I can Mentor you if and when you need me. I would need help to travel since I am on disability
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Tell me more about this near Cleveland, Ohio. I’m interested.
TAPS has events throughout the country. There was an event I’m Columbus this past September. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
During my 31 year career I have been assigned as a Notification / Casualty Assistance Officer. I appreciate the important mission of TAPS and welcome assisting in any way required during retirement…feel free to contact me at any time.
Thank you for your service Timothy. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
How do I go about volunteering for this.
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
If anything and/or anyone needing a friend/mentor in Goldsboro, NC Please let us know
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I will help as long as I don’t have to drive very far. This administration has made travel prohibitive. I’m USMC retired, age 74.
TAPS has events throughout the country. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Ok, sure- YES, indeed.
I can / will be a Volunteer.
Please, count me in
Adelbert R. Hendrickson
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I am a veteran and live in Maine with a farm and would love to mentor..
Thanks for your service David. I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
Call on me anytime I with Rolling thunder ch-4 Tennessee. I am sure I can muster more help also. I have 23 yrs active and 8 yrs stand by. Be more then happy to help out anyway possible
I am a disabled veteran and would like to volunteer
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor
I’ve been a mentor for 8 years! It’s a wonderful program. You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.taps.org/militarymentor