For many military spouses, the transition from military life to civilian life can be overwhelming—especially for those married to Special Operations Forces (SOF) service members. But thanks to The Pillar Foundation, founded by Teresa Shick, a Navy SEAL spouse with 19 years of experience, these resilient women are finding the support and community they need to navigate this journey.
A Mission Built on Real Experience
Teresa’s personal journey as a military spouse shaped the foundation’s mission. She saw firsthand the challenges that come with relocations, deployments, and uncertainty. In response, The Pillar Foundation was created to support SOF spouses through both pre- and post-transition phases, offering more than just resources but a true sense of belonging.
Real Stories, Real Change
One of the most powerful aspects of The Pillar Foundation’s work is its ability to connect spouses in ways that go beyond traditional support. Retreats and events allow women to share their stories and discover they’re not alone in their struggles.
Take Alex, for example. She struggled with isolation after her husband’s deployment. Through the foundation’s mental health and wellness support, Alex found a community of women who understood her struggles. The retreat and coaching not only helped her regain emotional strength but also ignited her passion for advocating for military families. Today, Alex is thriving and empowering others in the SOF community.
Another incredible story is Kristi’s, a Texas mother and SOF spouse. She found herself overwhelmed by raising children, managing a growing real estate business, and supporting her husband’s post-retirement endeavors. Discovering The Pillar Foundation’s retreats provided Kristi with a much-needed sense of community. Engaging with fellow SOF spouses, she gained insights into managing stress and balancing her roles. The foundation’s support empowered Kristi to thrive personally and professionally, reinforcing her resilience and sense of purpose.
A Foundation of Support
The Pillar Foundation isn’t just about offering services; it’s about fostering a community where SOF spouses can support one another. With access to wellness resources, personalized coaching, and an online community, spouses have everything they need to thrive during this transition.
Why It Matters
In its first three years, The Pillar Foundation has supported over 150 SOF spouses. These women are rediscovering their identities, building careers, and cultivating a sense of belonging that makes all the difference. Through each retreat, coaching session, and community event, the foundation helps them take steps toward creating a life they love.
How You Can Help
The Pillar Foundation is growing and invites others to support the work they do. Donations and partnerships are essential in keeping these programs running and expanding their reach. By contributing, you’ll help more SOF spouses find their path and create the fulfilling future they deserve.
If you’re inspired by these stories and want to get involved, visit The Pillar Foundation’s website to learn more: www.sofpillarfoundation.org. Together, we can continue empowering SOF spouses to find their strength, purpose, and community.