Operation Strong Families

Operation Strong Families thriving at Tampa YMCA

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Launched last November by the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, Operation Strong Families aims to help military and veteran families reduce stress while connecting with others who understand the unique challenges they face. So far, 10 military members and caregivers, along with 10 children, have participated in the program.

The free initiative supported by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County serves families with children ages 7 to 12. It helps veteran and military parents, plus caregivers, reduce stress while increasing their awareness of community resources.

The 10-week program includes biweekly sessions, featuring small-group workouts for adults. It also provides military children with opportunities to build self-esteem through Operation Hero. The curriculum for Operation Hero is provided by the Armed Services YMCA, tailored to address the unique struggles of military life.

Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Participants appreciate the chance to connect with others in similar situations, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. This shared understanding allows parents and caregivers to discuss the stressors of military life, providing a space where they feel supported and heard.

Families also benefit from quality time spent together, which strengthens their bonds. Additionally, the weekly workouts are a popular component of the program, helping families prioritize their physical well-being.

Husband and wife duo, Alberto Vallarino, a sergeant in Army Logistics and Eimy Alvarez, a surgical nurse, participated in the course at the Spurlino Family YMCA.

“The best thing about the program is (realizing) that we're not alone with our unique military challenges. Other couples have the same issues, and we can discuss, arriving at solutions together,” notes Alberto.

Eimy agrees.

“I wish more programs like this were available so that more military families could become united. You often see military families close on bases, but not outside the base. So, I wish I could meet more families like mine that are going through the same military challenges.”

Operation Strong Families results from the Tampa Y’s key strategic priority to fill critical community voids. One very important area of focus is with our military veterans. Our goal is to make the Tampa YMCA a local destination where these families can grow in health, connectedness and mental wellness.

“This program has such great potential and value to offer to our veteran and active military families. We want more military families to know about Operation Strong Families. I’m so excited for the initiative’s impactful future. We are working hard to ensure this program is the best it can be and provide what the families need most!” notes Nicole Kettermann, Director of Youth Health and Wellness at the Tampa YMCA.

The next session of Operation Strong Families begins the week of May 5, 2025. In addition to the Spurlino Family YMCA, the initiative runs at the South Tampa YMCA, Northwest Hillsborough YMCA and the North Brandon YMCA. To register or for more information, please visit our website, or email: military.families@tampaymca.org.

 

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*Presented by the YMCA