MN National Guard BTYR Bulletin
February 2024 - Happy Valentine's Day!
New childcare initiative helps families, offers opportunities to childcare providers
Minnesota launched the Department of Defense Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-Plus program Jan. 22. The new federally-funded program will provide more community childcare options and financial assistance to military families across Minnesota. It applies to full-time staff in any branch or component in a T10, T32, or Department of the Army T5 civilian position.
Military families and licensed child care providers can learn more by visiting the MCCYN Fee Assistance Program on the Child Care Aware® of America website.
Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard Adjutant General, meets a military spouse who is using the program while her service member spouse is deployed.
Tax software, tax credits offered this year
Military One Source offers tax software at no cost to current service members of any military branch or component. Visit the Military One Source at www.militaryonesource.mil or call (800) 342-9647.
The state of Minnesota offers new tax credit adjustments this year. This includes the Minnesota Working Family Credit, which can provide a refund even if an individual owes tax. Check eligibility details, especially if the income is below $35,000 (joint filers). Find out more at https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/working-family-credit. In addition, with changes to the Working Family Credit and its combination with the Minnesota Child Tax Credit, income phaseout rates now vary. For more information, see the linked information.
Slalom recognized as BTYR company
Slalom, a next-generation professional services company, was recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event in Minneapolis on Jan. 30.
It was attended by military members, Slalom employees, and special guests, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. The Beyond the Yellow Ribbon corporate and community network is made up of 80 companies and organizations and 53 cities and counties across Minnesota.
“Together, our network partners provide welcoming and caring workplaces and communities for veterans, service members, and their families. They recognize the value of their service and sacrifices,” said Army Maj. Gen. Charles Kemper, Minnesota National Guard 34th Infantry Division commanding general, who spoke at the event.
To receive the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon designation, companies must take steps, including implementing an action plan with strategies that actively support military-connected employees and their families and involve everyone within the company. Slalom has achieved this and more.
“Becoming a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization is not just a gesture for supporting our military veterans in the workplace; it's a commitment to honoring their sacrifice and valuing the unique strengths, resilience, and diverse perspectives they bring,” said Darrin Ahrens, Slalom
general manager. “It's about creating an inclusive environment that recognizes and appreciates the skills and experiences gained through service, and fostering a culture where every veteran feels understood, respected, and empowered to thrive in their professional journey.”
Retired Air Force Col. Jim Wall, a consulting leader at Slalom who also spoke at the event, cited the challenges service members and their families face and the support they need from employers. He added that although Slalom’s veteran employee resource group in Minneapolis may be small, its efforts can affect all its military-connected employees. The company has nearly 12,000 employees in 49 offices worldwide.
“…The things that we’re doing here, because of what we’re doing in Minnesota, that’s going to have a drastic impact on all of Slalom, which I’m super excited for,” Wall said.
The mission of Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, also known as BTYR, is to establish and sustain a comprehensive community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans, service members, and families in all military branches. Learn more at https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.
BTYR, Boston Scientific to host spring conference
Farmington BTYR featured on radio show
Observing Black History Month
Each year in February, the United States observes Black History Month. The U.S. Department of Defense recognizes the bravery and exceptional service of Black military and civilian personnel and celebrates the richness and diversity of their achievements during February and all year.
The poster shown is part of the Department of Defense's 2004 Black History Month three-poster series commemorating African Americans and the Arts. Each poster highlights a different, prominent African American artist. See and learn more by visiting the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute website or reach out to the Minnesota National Guard Diversity and Inclusion Office and Black History/African American Heritage Special Emphasis Council.
AAPI Special Emphasis Council connects with Hmong community at gala
Sia Her, executive director of the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans, Army Brig. Gen. Simon Schaefer, Minnesota National Guard's Joint Chief of Staff, and his wife Shana attended the event.
Women's Leadership Forum to be held in March
The Diversity and Inclusion Office and Women's Leadership Special Emphasis Council will host the Women's Leadership Forum on March 2. See the flyer for more details.
The various Special Emphasis Councils within the Minnesota National Guard Diversity and Inclusion Office is made up of Minnesota National Guard service members and civilian employees. Visit the Minnesota National Guard Diversity Initiative page on Facebook.
University asks military community for input on behavioral, mental health study
As part of this effort, the university is offering an opportunity for members of the military community to provide their input on issues related to this topic. They are invited to complete a survey and indicate if they would prefer to meet in an individual interview or participate in a focus group. See the flyer for more information and the survey link.
Self-care: Focusing on personal light
To learn more, e-mail Holistic Health & Fitness at H2F-Internal-Project-Management@army.mil.
Commentary: Balance digital life, mindful moments
By Army Chaplain (Col.) Buddy Winn
Minnesota National Guard State Chaplain
In the midst of a Minnesota winter, the allure of screens is strong. We turn on the fireplace or add another blanket to the pile and hunker down with one of a number of possible devices. Yet, it's essential to balance our digital life with mindful moments.
A 2021 study showed that about 31 percent of American adults are almost constantly online, revealing our deep digital engagement. I recently checked my screen time stats on my iPhone and was shocked at how much time I am connected every day! While technology has its merits, excessive screen time can lead to health issues and a disconnection from real-world experiences. Consider the benefits of setting digital boundaries and engaging in activities that promote healthy living.
Silence and solitude offer a space for reflection, away from the digital noise. As an example, studies show that connecting with nature significantly reduces stress. Let's take action: commit to daily moments without screens. Read a book, meditate on a sacred text, take a walk, or simply enjoy a moment of prayer or stillness. Use these times to refresh and reconnect with yourself, the divine, and your surroundings.
As we navigate our digital world, let's consciously choose to balance our screen time with meaningful, non-digital experiences that enrich our lives and enhance our well-being.
Child & Youth Program events
For upcoming events, sign up here. Visit also the Family Programs website and follow the Family Programs Facebook page and Child & Youth Program Facebook page.
Get ready to celebrate Month of the Military Child in April!
See the flyers for more information. The annual Purple Up event will once again be held at the Mall of America, which is a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company. More coming soon!
Teen Leadership Forum on March 8-10 in Motley, Minnesota - This weekend of learning and fun is for military connected youth in grades 6-12. They will learn leadership skills by participating in a group project, volunteering for a community service project, and connecting with other military teens. Activities include horseback riding, campfire donuts, crate staking, gaga ball, rock wall, leather making, and more. Registration is required.
Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Networks and Partners events
Career-Related Event
Career Force is hosting a career fair. See the flyer for more information.
Reach out.
The mission of Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is to establish and sustain a comprehensive community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota's military veterans, service members, and families in all military branches.
The BTYR Bulletin informs, connects, and supports Minnesota's military community and its many partners across the state.
E-mail: ng.mn.mnarng.list.j9-beyond-the-yellow-ribbon@army.mil
Follow: Twitter @BTYRmn and Facebook
Visit: BTYR website
Download: Minnesota National Guard app.
Resources: Minnesota National Guard Family Programs
BTYR Bulletin editor: cristina.f.oxtra.nfg@army.mil