Non-profit serving children, veterans, and adults with disabilities through outdoor and therapeutic recreation and education across Ohio. They support participants at all skill levels with adaptive equipment and instructors for downhill skiing, kayaking, cycling, paddling, sailing, amputee soccer, water skiing, and more. Their Bikes to Go program helps children and adults obtain an adaptive bike. Veterans attend for free, program fees for others are minimal and no one is turned away for inability to pay. Scholarships are also available.
6000 Harriott Drive, Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 389-3921
adaptivesportsconnection.org
Provides information and encouragement for individuals and families around money management, debt reduction, how to build wealth, and life after retirement. The Military Saves website has articles and resources specifically for military families.
(202) 387-6121
Military Saves: militarysaves.org
America Saves for Young Workers: americasavesforyoungworkers.org
americasaves.org
Offers support programs for veterans and their family, such as temporary financial assistance, a cash grant to support minor children of veterans who are eligible for American Legion membership. They also award college scholarships and list counseling and mental health support resources for veterans.
Contact Information: legion.org/contact
legion.org
Provides shelter, food, healthcare, and mental health services for victims of disaster, disaster preparedness and lifesaving skills training, blood drives, and specialized services for members of the military and veterans. The Central & Southern Ohio Region includes Cincinnati, Columbus, and Dayton.
24/7 Disaster Services: (800) 733-2767
Columbus Office: 995 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 253-2740
redcross.org/local/ohio/central-and-southern-ohio.html
A free week-long summer camp for military children ages 8 – 15. Priority enrollment is given to children of wounded, injured, ill and/or fallen military members. The camp is held at various locations across the US, and helps kids learn new skills, build character, and make friends while enjoying the outdoors. Complete their online application for enrollment or call for more information.
801 North West Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603
(855) 605-1267
campcorral.org
A free guide of product brands that offer active-duty military and veteran discounts. They independently verify each and every item on this list. Categories include retail, travel, education, auto, entertainment, and more.
dealhack.com/blog/military-discounts-guide
Supports music therapy, research, and provides live music experiences for wounded veterans and children or adults with life-threatening illnesses. Nominate yourself of someone you know with the gift of attending a live music concert for free. Go online for eligibility details and contact information.
doitforthelove.org
Creative stories and educational materials that bring families and kids together to learn about their health conditions. These free stories are science-backed self-care resources about Anxiety, Depression, Grief & Loss, PTSD, Social-Emotional Health, and Type 1 Diabetes. Resources include video shorts, printable activity sheets,
Main Website: drawnfromvalor.org
For Children with Diabetes: Kara & The Not So Dire Beastie
For Children Experiencing Depression or Anxiety: Empowernauts
Center offering equine-therapy and horse-assisted learning experiences to enrich lives. Programs include therapeutic riding for children and adults with special needs, Military Connections for military personnel and veterans, youth social-emotional learning, vocational training for young adults with special needs, and more.
1416 Reynoldsburg-New Albany Road, Blacklick, Ohio 43004
(614) 864-9500
dreamsonhorseback.org
Offers family-friendly exhibits, classes, workshops, and summer camps in gardening, cooking, fine art and wellness. Check the website Calendar for upcoming events and classes, which are sometimes free. General admission is free on the first Sunday of the month for Community Day. Active or Retired service members get $1 off each ticket. SNAP, EBT, WIC and Medicaid recipients get tickets for $3 each with ID and proof of participation.
1777 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 715-8000
fpconservatory.org
Provides educational support and college scholarships for children with a parent in military service or law enforcement. Scholarships exist for children whose parent was wounded or killed, active duty, honorably discharged or a law/corrections officer that was injured, killed, or died by suicide. Check the website for program requirements and application details.
101 Vintage Drive, Red Oak, Texas 75154
(817) 200-7465
gratitudeinitiative.org
Sponsors scholarships for students to attend career colleges or technical schools. Scholarships are available for high school graduates, military students, and adult learners with financial need. Their website has useful information on career exploration, and how to apply for scholarships and grants. Visit the website for contact information and to apply.
imagine-america.org
Provides free civil legal assistance and guidance to low income residents and senior citizens of Columbus and Central Ohio. Legal Aid attorneys may be able to help you with the following types of cases or legal problems: consumer law, family law, housing, public benefits, reentry, seniors, tax law, veterans, and education. Their website also has a page of Resources with easy to read information on these topics.
A one-stop shop for housing resources in Licking County. Programs include transitional housing, rapid rehousing, help finding affordable housing, supportive services for veterans, and housing assistance for those recently released from a State of Ohio prison. Project Homeline is a homeless prevention program for families and individuals to receive one-on-one with a homeless prevention specialist, access case management services, and financial assistance. Their website has many resources for basic needs, healthcare, housing issues, and legal issues in Licking County. Call to schedule an appointment and confirm what paperwork you need to bring to the appointment.
Physical Address: 23 South Park Place, Suite 200, Newark, Ohio 43058
Mailing Address: PO Box 613, Newark, Ohio 43058
(740) 345-1970 or (877) 421-5224
lcchousing.org
Faith-based organization providing a wide range of services across Ohio. Services include Faith Mission homeless shelter, food, health care, affordable senior living and domestic violence help. Visit the website for detailed program information and to find an office near you. The United Way/LSS 211 Information and Referral network can connect you to other social services across Franklin County.
Provides food, clothing, toiletries and hygiene items, emotional support and other resources to veterans, active duty personnel, reservists, military families and survivors.
Headquarters Address: 648 Clymer Road, Suite 113, Marysville, Ohio 43040
(614) 522-1555
mashpantry.org
A faith-based veteran service organization that provides intensive peer-based programs for veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress. Their program in Columbus is held at The Wilds, and application is required. They also offer events, workshops and share information on other resources for veterans. Visit the website for additional contact and application information.
PO Box 1405 Montgomery, Texas 77356
(832) 205-8550
mightyoaksprograms.org
Supports military-connected children and addresses education challenges associated with military lifestyle. They offer professional development services, educational webinars for parents, and digital resources for families to plan for transitioning schools, mental health challenges, and more.
909 Mountain Lion Circle, Harker Heights, Texas 76548
(254) 953-1923
facebook.com/MilitaryChild
Provides access to service-specific news and resources that support military families. They also offer confidential counseling over the phone, in person and online for money management, parenting services, relocation, deployment and a variety of other services. All members of the National Guard and Reserve Component and all active-duty members of the Marine Corps, Army, Navy, and Air Force are eligible for services, some at no cost. Their website has lots of resources for families for moving, adoption, legal help, retirement planning, spouse education, and more.
(800) 342-9647
militaryonesource.mil
This website helps young adults plan their next steps in life by bringing together information about colleges, careers, and military service opportunities. Access helpful articles on writing a resume, job searching, planning for and paying for college, what to take to college, interview tips, military service, preparing for military life, and more. The website has helpful search tools to find high-demand jobs, colleges, and military job postings.
myfuture.com
Supports military families through research, advocacy, and programming. Their website has information and resources for military families on topics including education and career, deployment, adoption, marriage and divorce. They offer Military Spouse Scholarships for degrees from GED to PhD, continuing education, and more. They host Operation Purple family summer camps and retreats. The Bloom Military Teens programs hosts a blog for military teens to share experiences, artwork, and access resources.
(703) 931-6632
NMFA website: militaryfamily.org
Bloom Military Teens: bloommilitaryteens.org
Each pass covers entrance fees at lands managed by the National Park Service and US Fish & Wildlife Service and standard amenity fees (day use fees) at lands managed by the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and US Army Corps of Engineers. Free Interagency Passes are available for 4th graders, senior citizens, US military families, and individuals with permanent disabilities. Find program details and park locations on their website.
(202) 208-6843
nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
The only museum in the United States dedicated to preserving the stories of veterans from all branches of service. Visitors can experience a narrative journey of veterans’ stories through history, explore curated exhibitions, and enjoy community events. Rally Point is a monthly meeting for connecting and educating veterans and their loved ones, and they offer free Jiu Jitsu and Yoga classes for veterans or civilians. The website also has resources for veterans and Gold Star Families for mental health, educational opportunities, and more.
300 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 362-2800
nationalvmm.org
Connects military personnel, veterans, and their families to behavioral health services, including services available through the Department of Veterans Affairs and Vet Centers. They can link military families to substance abuse treatment, counseling, suicide prevention services and support specifically geared toward veterans and service men and women and their families. Their website also has resources for job assistance, legal help, and a resource map to find help near you.
Ohio Department of Veterans Services: (614) 644-0898
24/7 Veteran Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 or Text 838255
ohiocares.ohio.gov
State committee supporting Ohio troops and military families. Use their website to find links to employment assistance, family resources, financial assistance and veterans services; contact information for Soldier and Family Readiness, Family Programs, Employment Support, and Financial Counselor Offices across Ohio.
2825 West Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 309-7884
homefront.ohio.gov/home
Offers programs for military youth and families through Ohio State University 4-H Youth Development. Hosts events, family summer camps, teen leadership camps, and military family meet-ups. They can also connect military families to resources for reintegration, education, and emergency assistance.
(614) 247-8160
ohio4h.org/statewide-programs/ohio-military-kids
Provides a space for service members, their families and kids to meet and support one another.
2825 West Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 336-7274 or (614) 336-4214
ong.ohio.gov/frg/FRG_youthprograms.html
Educational resources for military families by the Ohio Department of Education. Find information on supporting military youth in school, transition resources, and education license assistance for educators with military connections.
(614) 466-4109
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Other-Resources/Ohio-Network-for-Military-Families-and-Veterans
Military Kids provides activity grants for families to pay for children’s (ages 3-18) sports, fine and performing arts, camps, and tutoring programs during a parent’s National Guard or Reserve deployment or combat-injury recovery. Find program details and apply online.
2911 Hunter Mill Road, Suite 203 Oakton, VA 22124
(703) 734-6654
ourmilitarykids.org
A national organization that provides support for moms and dads experiencing postpartum depression or needing emotional support. They do not offer medical advice or treatment. They have free, virtual parent support groups for moms, dads, family members, queer and trans parents, military parents, adoptive and birth mothers, postpartum psychosis, and those experiencing lost pregnancy of death of a child.
Helpline: Call or text HELP to (800) 944-4773
Text en Español: 971-203-7773
Mental Health Emergency Line: (800) 273-8255
postpartum.net
Professional organization promoting equine-assisted services. Their website is a great source of information about equine therapy and standards, and they provide credentialing for professionals. Families can use the website to find programs across the country based on location or medical condition. They also offer scholarships to cover the cost of equine programs. Their programs serve at risk youth, military veterans, individuals with developmental disabilities, and more.
PO Box 33150 Denver, Colorado 80233
(800) 369-7433
pathintl.org/
A comprehensive learning site for families and military children on topics like deployments, family health, relocation, grief, and more. There are educational materials written for kids, adults, and professionals. Find apps, games, vidoes, and printable activities and curriculums.
sesamestreetformilitaryfamilies.org
Serves individuals ages 5+ cognitive and physical disabilities such as autism, PTSD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and others, through therapeutic horse riding. Programs include adaptive/therapeutic riding, independent riding, and Shane’s Calvary for veterans and their families.
7908 Myers Road, Centerburg, Ohio 43011
(740) 625-9324
shanecenter.org
National nonprofit providing comprehensive resources for those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one. They have lots of programs for youth, families, adults, parents, siblings, and partners. Programs include family camps, retreats, mentorship, support groups, online workshops, and more. They can also connect you to resources like casework, education support, and counseling. Find program details on their website.
3033 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia 22201
24/7 Helpline: (800) 959-8277
taps.org
An online, community forum for prospective service academy members to ask questions about service academies (including Air Force Academy – USAFA, Coast Guard Academy – USCGA, Military Academy – USMA, Merchant Marine Academy – USMMA, Naval Academy – USNA, ROTC’s, and other publicly and privately-funded military colleges).
serviceacademyforums.com
An official guide to federal information and services. Use the website to find helpful, easy-to-read information on topics like how the government works, government benefits, disability services, immigration and citizenship, taxes, legal issues and more. The website can also be used to register to vote, print tax forms or check on a tax refund, file a complaint, and other government-related tasks.
(844) 872-4681
usa.gov
Programs: Medical and mental health services for those who have served in the military. Specialized services for those who are pregnant, postpartum, and/or parenting, including case management and support groups. Interdisciplinary staff to provide wrap-around care, including but not limited to: mental health therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, primary care physicians, and peer support specialists.
Eligibility: Ages 18+ who have served in the military.
Cost: Cost varies depending on service and income level. Some veterans receive no-cost services and other do have a copay. Enrollment and Eligibility staff can help you determine if there is a cost.
Referral: Individuals may be referred by a professional or refer themselves. Individuals can register for VA care in person or online.
420 North James Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 257-5200
Maternal Health Services Flyer: cap4kids.org/columbus/files/2024/11/VA-Maternal-Health.pdf
Main Website: va.gov/central-ohio-health-care
Helps veterans access resources to successfully manage life transitions, build independence, and regain confidence. Services include help with job searching and career coaching, obtain transitional housing, home repairs, financial assistance, transportation assistance, and a partnership with Mid-Ohio Foodbank. Call or fill out the form on their website for assistance.
Provides supportive services for veterans, families, and individuals. Shop their thrift stores to support their programs and find low-cost clothing and home goods. Services vary based on location and include employment, housing, and wrap-around services for veterans; clinical treatment programs for ex-offenders, emergency housing for men in Columbus, and mental health treatment. They host Operation Backpack to help provide school supplies for families each fall. The monthly Auto Auction is an opportunity to purchase a donated vehicle to benefit their social service programs.
Auto Auction Website: voaohioautoauction.org
Main Website: voaohin.org/central-ohio