Month of the Military Child

April is designated as the Month of the Military Child and is a time to honor the sacrifices made by military families worldwide, with an emphasis on the experience of the dependent children of military members serving at home and overseas. In celebration of Month of the Military Child, USO Illinois hosted four youth programs throughout the month of April!

USO Diaper Division participants had a yee-haw of a time with Miss Jamie from the Farm. Children ages 0-2 with an accompanying parent do-si-do’d at USO Great Lakes. USO Diaper Division stimulates the mind and body of the littlest member of the military family while creating a community of support for military parents.

USO Discovery Kids donned their favorite superhero costumes for a special USO Discovery Kids Littlest Superheroes Party. The youth tested their super powers at our home-made carnival, used their X-ray vision during the spring egg hunt and learned the science behind super powers.

USO Teen/Tween participants joined the circus for a day at CircEsteem! Military youth balanced on the tightrope, walked on stilts, learned how to spin plates, and soared with grace on the lyra with Chicago Bears alumni, Steve Edwards. CircEsteem prides themselves on challenging youth and building self-esteem and respect through the practice and performance of circus acts.

To finish out April, USO Illinois partnered with Kids Rank for the Amazing Family Race. Military families worked together to complete thrilling, strategic games and challenges at Dave & Buster’s in Mt. Vernon. After the event, families were invited to stay for lunch and play free arcade games.

Thank you to all of our donors, program partners and USO volunteers for helping us make Month of the Military Child memorable for our military kids!

Published 6/4/2019