Wellness & Resilience Resource Guide

The information provided does not constitute an endorsement of our organization, its products or services by the Wisconsin National Guard, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, or Department of the Air Force.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering dedication and services to both our state and nation. We recognize the unique challenges faced by our dual-status members, those who proudly serve in uniform while also fulfilling vital civilian roles as federal employees. Your commitment to public service, in both capacities, is deeply valued and essential to our community.

We understand that policy changes and fluctuating working conditions can cause stress and uncertainty, and we want to assure you that you are not alone. As a member of the Wisconsin National Guard family, your well-being is our priority.

This resource guide has been developed with you in mind. Its purpose is to provide practical information, checklists, and access to resources that can help navigate the complexities of potential employment and financial transitions. We aim to empower you with the knowledge and support necessary to address these challenges with confidence.

Disclaimer: The content shared by J9 Wellness & Resilience on all web links is intended for general informational use only. While we aim to deliver this information with integrity, we do not offer any guarantees or representations, whether explicit or implicit, about the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of the information found on these websites.

Table of Contents

• Employment Specialists
• Resources for Guard Members Facing Employment Loss-WI
• Personal Finance Specialists
• Military & Family Readiness
• Child & Youth Services
• Military OneSource
• Coping Strategies
• Suicide & Substance Abuse Resources
• Make a Care Plan
• Additional Resources

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Employment Specialists

Professional Development Counselors

Solution-based resource for Army and Air National Guard, and their families dealing with employment. Resume building, job search, LinkedIn, cover letters, and Professional Development Counselors (job specialists) collaborating with employers to fulfill employment needs with our military community.

Fill out your Intake Form and get started now.

1:1 Assistance

• Resume Building
  Building different types of resumes to highlight your talents and experiences.
• LinkedIn
  Optimizing your LinkedIn profile while expanding your network.
• Interview Prep
  Preparing for all parts of the interview process.
• Cover Letter Writing
  Making a positive first impression with a well-written cover letter that can land you an interview.
• USA Jobs Navigation
  Learn to navigate usajobs.gov & learn strategies to make your profile stand out.
• Federal Resume Writing
  Learn to present your skills & experiences in your resume and land interviews.

Michael LeDoux: michael.p.ledoux5.ctr@army.mil
Kristine Cummings: kristine.m.cummiings2.ctr@army.mil

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Resources for Guard Members Facing Employment Loss – Wisconsin

Immediate Action

If you are facing or have experienced a loss of civilian employment, consider these immediate steps;

File for Unemployment

• Federal Employees: File an Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) claim through the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) online: https://dwd.wisconsin.gov. You will need your SF-50/SF-8 form and federal duty station information.
• All Other Employees: File a regular Wisconsin Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim online through the DWD. Partial benefits may be available if working less than 32 hours per week.

Health Insurance

Explore continuation options through COBRA. Be aware this often involves paying the full premium.

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Personal Finance Specialists

Personal Finance Counselors

Help you and your family manage finances, resolve financial problems, and reach long-term goals such as getting an education, buying a home and planning for retirement.

Contacts

Create a Lean Budget

Adjusting your budget is essential to managing your finances that may help prepare you for the future unknowns. Here are some suggestions to help you develop a streamlined budget that enables you to live comfortably.

• Assess essential vs non-essential spending
• Focus on housing, food, utilities, and insurance
• Cancel non-essential subscriptions streaming services, gym memberships, any unnecessary expenses
• Negotiate bills- Many services providers offer hardship plans or discounts

Providers that offer hardship plans and discounts to their customers.

Internet Providers: Many providers offer low-income internet plans to eligible households.

Utilities: Many utility providers offer hardship plans to help customers who are having trouble paying their bills. These options may include payment plans, discounts, and additional financial assistance.

(We Energies, Alliant Energy, H.E.A.T. program, Heat for Heroes)

Mortgage Forbearance Programs: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-is-mortgage- forbearance-en-289/

Childcare: WI has programs to help low-income families pay childcare, including Wisconsin Shares and the Child Care Bridge Fund.

Army Emergency Relief Program (loans & grants): https://www.armyemergencyrelief.org/

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Military & Family Readiness

Military & Family Readiness Specialists (MFRS) are located at armories across Wisconsin and provide resources, and referrals to anyone looking for help with finances, employment, mental health, legal, or similar. As subject matter experts in local and national community partners along with veteran’s organizations MFRSs will be able to help you identify resources that can assist you with getting back on track and help you based on your personal needs. Their support is tailored to your needs while keeping potential eligibility requirements and restrictions in mind with the goal of getting you connected to the most appropriate point-of-contact to avoid further delays.

MFRSs are aware of grants and local financial support if you are experiencing a financial hardship. They act as the primary point-of-contact for the Wisconsin Military Family Financial Aid (MFFA), which is a taxpayer funded program that provides grants to actively serving Service Members and eligible Family Members experiencing unexpected financial hardships. The applicant must be a resident of Wisconsin, have experienced an unexpected financial liability and meet other monetary requirements.

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Child & Youth Services

Provides military youth with leadership, character and resilience opportunities through youth summits, camps, and other events. Programs foster coping strategies, health, well-being, and resilience throughout the military life cycle.

Change is an unavoidable aspect of life, and regrettably, we must all confront challenges during our journey. These experiences lead to confusion, pain and discomfort for the adults involved, but how do you talk to kids about it? Should you talk to your kids about it?

Parents,

When a stressor arises, it can affect many aspects of your life including your family. Instead of hiding it, trying to forget about it or pretending everything is fine, experts suggest talking to your children truthfully about what is occurring and causing struggle or strife. The way you approach these conversations with your children is the key. Here are some tips on how to have these types of conversation with your children.

• Consider your own emotional state– Are you in a space to have this discussion?
• Consider time and place- Are you in a safe and calm environment?
• Be honest, don’t avoid- Tell the truth and answer their questions honestly but leave out the details.
• Be reassuring– Tell your child they are safe and loved and nothing bad will happen that can’t be fixed.
• Don’t minimize your child’s feelings- Assist your child in processing their emotions and keep in mind that you have experienced similar feeling at times as well.

Contact Info

John Daniel ( JD) Engelhardt: johndaniel.w.engelhardt.ctr@army.mil
Audrey Daigneault: audrey.c.daigneault.ctr@army.mil

Young individuals are often aware of the dynamics occurring within their households, and the introduction of stressful circumstances can lead many children to experience feelings of isolation and confusion regarding their emotions. It is crucial for young people to have access to resources and support during such challenging periods. Below are some tips and resources to get youth connected during times like these

• Talk to a trusted adult – When you’re feeling big emotions express them to someone you know will listen.
• Get involved in activities – Join a hobby group, sports team, club, church group to get connected with people your age and build bonds.
• Use mindful skills – Explore ways to calm yourself down and sooth some of the big feelings you are having.
• Sign up for Army National Guard Child and Youth Programs – Free metal health and resiliency camps and programs are available to Service Members and their children through the year and state.

RESOURCES

Military OneSource Podcast Series
https://www.militaryonesource.mil/resources/podcasts/military-onesource

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Coping in Hard Times: Fact Sheet for Parents
https://www.nctsn.org/resources/coping-hard-times-fact-sheet-parents

How to talk to your children about hard things
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/11/06/phrases-emotionally-intelligent-parents-use-to-talk-to-kids-about-hard-things.html

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Military OneSource

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/all-the-ways

Your access to information, solutions, and assistance during life’s challenges. We can help you overcome challenges, reach your goals, and thrive. As a member of our military family, you have access to a wealth of tools, information and resources from the Defense Department anytime, anywhere. Eligible Service Members and families can also access personalized support for a range of issues.

Explore Tools Offered Through Military Onesource

• Benefits Finder
• Resource Finder
• MilTax: Free Tax Services
• Spouse Education & Career
• Opportunities Program
• Military & Family Life Counselor Locator
• Relationship Resource Tool
• Military Funeral Honors Directory

Resources & Links

• Financial Counseling (including PFCs) https://www.militaryonesource.mil/benefits/financial-counseling/
• Energy: https://energybenefit.wi.gov/ (reference pg. 3)
• WI County & Tribal Veterans Service Officers https://wicvso.org/
• Military Separation & Retirement https://www.militaryonesource.mil/transition-retirement/separation

Exploring Health Insurance Options

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Health Care and Coverage Tab: is a state agency that manages health and social services in Wisconsin. The DHS works to protect and promote the health and safety of Wisconsin residents. https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/

HealthCare: helps individuals buy health insurance. It offers the Health Insurance Marketplace, which provides health plans that meet the Affordable Care Act requirements. https://www.healthcare.gov/see-plans/#

Additional Benefits

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: If your household income and bank funds drop significantly after a layoff, you may qualify for SNAP benefits, which help cover the cost of groceries. http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families: TANF provides short-term financial assistance to eligible low-income families. If you have children and your income is significantly reduced due to a federal RIF, this program can help cover basic living expenses like rent, utilities and childcare. https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/w2/researchers/programs

Contact Info

1-800-342-9647

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Coping Strategies

Coping Strategy Ideas

• Playing/ snuggling your pet
• Calling a friend
• Journaling
• Doodling or other crafts
• Listening/ dancing to music Exercising
• Try something new
• Read a book
• Spend time outside
• Make new connections
• Get involved or attend community events

Contact Info

Samantha Maass: 608.242.3369
samantha.s.maass.ctr@army.mil

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Suicide & Substance Abuse Resources

Knowing your available resources is crucial for effective decision-making, achieving goals, and mitigating your risk levels. At any point of our lives, we can be faced with challenges.

Knowing what resources are available to you can save your life.

A recommended practice for everyone is to store at least three resources on your phone for easy access. You can never predict when you or someone in your circle may require them.

County Crisis Lines
If your county crisis line lists business hours availability only or if you are having issues connecting, please call the 988 Suicide & crisis Lifeline. https://www.preventsuicidewi.org/county-crisis-lines

Suicide Loss Support Groups
Find a support group near you. https://www.preventsuicidewi.org/suicide-loss-support-groups-statewide-directory

Veterans Crisis Line
24/7 Confidential crisis support for veterans and their loved ones.
Dial 988 then Press 1 / or text 838255 / chat online https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/

Crisis Text Line
Connect with a volunteer crisis counselor. Free confidential 24/7 support at your fingertips.
Text “Hopeline” to 741741

Be There Wisconsin / Live Today – Put it Away
Find a local gun shop near you where you can safely store your weapon during hard times. https://www.betherewis.com/firearm-storage-online-map/

Find Inpatient & Residential Rehab in Wisconsin
https://www.inpatient-centers.org/treatment/wisconsin/

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
https://www.samhsa.gov/
1-800-622-HELP (4357)

Find Treatment
Confidential and anonymous resource for person seeking treatment for mental and substance use disorders in the U.S. and its territories.
https://findtreatment.gov

Home-Mission WI
Assist employers in WI connect with transitioning service members, spouses and veterans.
POC: Steve Janke
Email: steve@semperforward.com

Given an Hour
No cost mental health services to military members, veterans, and their loved ones through a network of independently licensed mental health professionals nationwide. giveanhour.org

The Highground Veterans Memorial Park
Website: https://www.thehighground.us/
Phone: (715) 743-4224
Retreats and programs focused on healing and recovery for veterans, including those dealing with substance abuse.

Rogers Behavioral Health
Is a not-for-profit, independent provider of specialized mental health and addiction treatment. As one of the largest behavioral healthcare systems in the United States, Rogers offers highly effective treatment that helps people live for the moments that matter. https://rogersbh.org/

Word of Hope Ministries
This organization serves Veterans and the community with employment services (they also have a clothing bank for men, women, and children.) https://wohminc.org/
Dr. Yvonne Bell Gooden
ybgooden@wohminc.org

Find AA Meetings in Wisconsin
Life-changing support is available through AA meetings in Wisconsin. https://sober.com/aa-meetings/wisconsin/

Psychology Today
Is a therapy directory, lists clinical professionals, psychiatrists and treatment centers who provide mental health services in the US and internationally. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists

Veteran’s Outreach and Recovery Program (VORP)
Phone: (920) 226-9898
Peer support, recovery coaching, connections to resources, and assistance with navigating the VA system. https://dva.wi.gov/Pages/benefitsclaims/VORP.aspx

WI H.O.O.A.H. US
This program offers support to veterans, Service Members, and their families with the mental well-being of the person in need and their support system. Learn more at https://hooahwi.org/warrior-wellness/

Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin
https://www.woundedwarriorsunitedwi.org/
Services: Provides free hunting and fishing trips for veterans to promote healing and camaraderie.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Wisconsin
Website: https://www.namiwisconsin.org/
Phone: (800) 236-2988
Support groups, education, and advocacy for veterans and their families dealing with mental health challenges, including substance abuse.

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Make a Care Plan

Having a plan on how you will handle life challenges such as stress will help you manage your
mental and physical well-being.

When we are feeling overwhelmed by stress or other challenges we are facing, we may not
know at that second who we can call for help or what steps we can take to help re-ground
ourselves.

Having a plan that you can keep on your phone, on the fridge, in the car, at your desk can help
deescalate your situation and help get you connected with support.

Who can I go to for help and support

e.g. Friends, family, mental health professionals, other agencies

Suicide & Crisis Line
Telephone: 988

Essential Needs
Telephone: 211

My triggers that can cause me harm physically and mentally
e.g. Relationship issues, stress from work/home, isolation, loss of job

My coping skills to prevent self-harm physically and mentally
e.g. Exercising, speaking to a person of trust, practicing mindfulness

Examples:

Mental Health Crisis Safety Plan

Developing a Safety Plan can be helpful for anyone who may feel like they are at high risk of mental health crisis. A Safety Plan is a prioritized written list of coping strategies and sources of support. The plan is brief, is in your own words, and is easy to read. Use this worksheet to complete your own safety plan!

Coping Strategies

Things I can do to take my mind off my problems like relaxation techniques or physical activity.

Warning Signs

Thoughts, images, mood, situations, behaviors that indicate a crisis may be developing.

Places & Spaces

Places that provide distraction and spaces that I feel safe.

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Additional Resources