What is VFW National Home’s Military Family Education Program?
Military-connected children change schools six to nine times before graduating, more than three times as often as their nonmilitary counterparts. That kind of instability takes a real toll on learning.
Our education program wants to help close that gap. It’s a structured set of academic, life skills, and enrichment offerings built for residents of all ages living at our Eaton Rapids, Michigan campus, run by staff and volunteers who work directly with local schools and families to keep kids and adults moving forward.
What’s included in the Education program?
The program is built around five areas, each one designed to meet residents where they are and move them toward their next goal.
One-on-one tutoring in reading, math, and study skills for both kids and adults.
Teen and adult programming that builds independence, confidence, and practical household skills.
Field trips and hands-on projects that keep learning going outside the school year.
Community Service & Patriotism
Service projects and campus traditions that honor veterans and build connection.
Academic Support & Tutoring for Kids & Adults
Personalized, one-on-one tutoring helps residents strengthen the skills they need most, including reading, math, organization, study habits, or test preparation. Our team meets students where they are, providing personalized support that fits their learning style and pace.
Learning doesn’t stop after childhood. Adult residents can access personalized academic support while earning a diploma, preparing for a certification, or pursuing a college degree during their time on campus.
Life Skills Development
Residents develop the everyday skills that support a stable, healthy home. Teens grow more confident and independent, while adults build practical skills they can use to care for themselves and their families.
Teen Life Skills (ages 12-19)
Teens build independence and confidence through the following:
- Mentoring
- Hands-on learning
- Themed events
Residents gain practical insights through guest speakers, personalized sessions, and consistent mentoring that helps them put new skills into practice.
Adult Life Skills (ages 20 and up)
Classes and support groups cover areas and topics including:
- Financial management
- Parenting
- Household management
- Healthy relationships
These classes follow the same goal-setting approach used throughout the program, helping residents connect what they learn to their broader plan for long-term stability.
Learning Spaces
Residents have access to three dedicated spaces built for learning at every age and stage:
- Science Lab: Residents explore geology, astronomy, and microbiology through hands-on activities, both during the school year and in summer programming.
- Computer Lab: Open after school and through the summer, giving residents access to technology for homework, job searches, online courses, and more.
- Library: A wide selection of books and multimedia resources, plus a quiet space for study or reading, with special programs that encourage literacy across all age groups.
Summer Enrichment
Learning doesn’t stop when the school year ends. Summer programming carries residents through subjects from astronomy to zoology, using field trips, team projects, and hands-on experiences to keep kids engaged and moving forward.
Community Service & Patriotism
Service is part of daily life at the National Home. Residents give back through:
- Community involvement
- Writing letters to veterans
- Visiting local hospitals
They also take part in campus traditions that honor the country and its veterans, including Veterans Day, Memorial Day, POW/MIA Day, and Fourth of July celebrations.
Our education program is part of VFW National Home’s On-Campus Residence Program
Our education support program is one part of our larger on-campus residence program for veterans and military families. Eligible families can access these services by joining the residential program and relocating to our Eaton Rapids, Michigan campus.
Once on campus, each family works through the Red, White & Blue Program – our phased case-management framework:
- Red: Stabilization & foundation, addressing immediate challenges and building healthy financial habits.
- White: Skill building & accountability, strengthening relationships and confidence, and planning for life after the program.
- Blue: Transition readiness, finalizing a personalized plan for housing, employment, education, and family well-being.
Education plays an important role throughout the program. Every class, certification, and life skills lesson helps residents move closer to the goals they’ve set with their case manager.
What other programs and services are included in the On-Campus Residence Program?
Education is one piece of a full range of on-campus support. Families in the program also have access to:
Housing & Moving Costs
Housing at the Eaton Rapids campus and support for relocation expenses.
Learn MoreDaycare & school age programs
Free, accredited early education and school-age support for resident children.
Learn MoreSee what your family could build here at VFW National Home
Education is one piece of a much bigger program built around your family’s goals. Our team can walk you through what that looks like and help you figure out if it’s the right next step.
