U.S. Soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment prepare to race in go-karts during a Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers event in Wackersdorf, Germany. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Christian Aquino)
Being single does not necessarily mean that a Soldier is not involved in a relationship or has no Family. Across the Army, the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, or BOSS, program collaborates with the Family Advocacy Program to address single Soldiers’ needs and challenges.
Cultivating and maintaining healthy relationships are crucial for both civilian and military life. The Army’s Family Advocacy Program grows with Soldiers and their loved ones. It provides services to improve critical relationship skills, regardless of a Soldier’s relationship status (single, divorced, single parent).
“Resources and tools are available for young, single Soldiers preparing for their first relationship, as well as for experienced Soldiers who are in or entering new relationships,” explained Charlene Sanchez, Family Advocacy Program specialist.
FAP offers support through classes and resources on healthy self-expression, parenting, coping strategies, effective communication, anger management and recognizing warning signs in relationships. “Arming Soldiers with the education and information to be the best for their Families is one of the most effective tools for preventing incidents of abuse,” said Cindy Morita, Family Advocacy Program specialist.
By providing these tools, the program aims to help Soldiers maintain healthy relationships at every stage of their personal and professional lives. Morita emphasized that “utilizing and participating in local Family Advocacy Programs does not adversely affect a Soldier’s career when used to improve interpersonal skills or when used by victims to report abuse. Getting access to the right resources before an incident occurs is the best way to prevent negatively impacting a Soldier’s career.” For single Soldiers who have experienced relationship trauma or abuse, FAP can provide support and, when necessary, make outside referrals. While the goal is prevention, intervention is also a critical support service.
Morita reminds Soldiers, “No victim is alone, and FAP has domestic abuse victim advocates (who) can support 24/7.”
FAP is one of many programs that can improve the quality of life for every Soldier. Discover how the Family Advocacy and BOSS programs can enhance your Army journey and enrich your quality of life with the following resources:
· The Army’s Family Advocacy Program
· Army Benefits Library—Family Advocacy Program
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