- Governors can shape the daily lives of military families more than any other elected officials in America. The decisions made in statehouses often determine whether military families experience stability or strain. With global tensions on the rise, now more than ever, they need to feel a sense of belonging in their communities.
For more than 15 years at Blue Star Families, I've had the privilege of listening to military families all across this country. These families serve alongside their loved ones in uniform and depend on their local communities to help them thrive. No matter where they live, their stories share common challenges—finding jobs, keeping kids in consistent schools, staying healthy, and feeling connected—often shaped most by state policies and local leadership.
That's why I'm writing today with both gratitude and an invitation. Thank you to the growing number of governors already leading through the Do Your Part State Initiative. And to those considering joining this bipartisan effort. This is your moment.
Created in partnership with the National Governors Association, the Do Your Part State Initiative builds on what many of you already know—states are powerful engines for innovation. Across the country, governors are demonstrating that practical, locally driven solutions can make life better for military families. Some of the best solutions are already working in local communities. Now we have a chance to share those ideas, make them stronger, and bring them to more families.
More than 20 governors have already signed on as Do Your Part States! These early leaders are showing that real change doesn't require new bureaucracy or big budgets. It begins with collaboration, visibility, and a shared desire to strengthen the communities military families call home. Their leadership is creating momentum, and it's inspiring others to follow.
As our nation approaches America's 250th birthday, we have set an ambitious and hopeful goal: all 50 states and U.S. territories united in support of military families through this initiative. Thanks to the leadership already shown, this vision is within reach. Together, we can make this a defining national moment of unity, supporting those who serve.
Military families live in every ZIP code, and more than 70% live off base. Their daily lives depend on state systems—schools, healthcare, jobs, and housing. Yet our 2025 Military Family Lifestyle Survey shows that only 44% of active-duty families are satisfied with military life. State leadership has the power to ease these burdens. Stability strengthens families, stability drives retention, and retention ensures readiness.
Co-chaired by Governors Spencer Cox and Wes Moore, the Do Your Part State Initiative recognizes the essential role governors play in shaping that stability. Through the toolkit, states can share proven ideas, learn from peers, and take visible steps to support military families.
To the governors already leading as Do Your Part States: thank you. Your leadership sends a clear message to military families that they are valued members of your communities.
To those considering joining: we invite you to be a part of this growing movement. Explore the toolkit and help shape a future where military families feel supported not only by federal programs, but by the states they proudly call home.
And to residents living in a Do Your Part State, take a moment to thank your leadership for supporting military families. If your state hasn't joined yet, encourage them to take part in this exciting national effort by contacting their office!
Together, we can ensure all military families feel supported everywhere they live— no matter where the mission takes them.
With gratitude,
Kathy Roth-Douquet
CEO, Blue Star Families
