Published: July 30, 2025
With the incredible support of the Department of Health Agency (DHA) and the National Park Service (NPS) through the Military Families Outdoors (MFO) program, we’re celebrating one year of Blue Star Connect Outdoors (BSCO)! This milestone reflects a year of connecting military families to nature, fostering resilience, and creating lasting memories in the great outdoors.
As we mark the first anniversary of Blue Star Connect Outdoors (BSCO), we reflect on a year of meaningful connections, unforgettable adventures, and the transformative power of the outdoors. Over the past 12 months, BSCO has been dedicated to bringing military families closer to nature, providing opportunities for growth, healing, and connection through outdoor experiences. We’ve connected families to the outdoors, created unforgettable memories, and fostered community in ways that go beyond the ordinary. From hiking through historic landmarks to camping under the stars, BSCO has made nature more accessible for military families across the country — and the impact has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Looking back on our achievements, it’s hard not to feel deep pride in our strides. We’ve connected more than 4,200 individuals (1,400 families) to outdoor adventures that promote mental wellness, physical health, and emotional resilience. We’ve formed lasting friendships, shared laughs, and discovered the power of the outdoors as a tool for healing and connection.
A Vital Partnership with the National Park Service: Enhancing Our Impact
At the heart of BSCO’s success has been our partnership with the National Park Service (NPS). Together, we've opened doors for military families to experience the beauty and tranquility of our national parks, forests, and waterways. With NPS rangers guiding our events, military families can explore iconic parks and gain deeper connections to the natural world.
Thanks to NPS, families have participated in ranger-led hikes, educational activities, and hands-on learning experiences that provide fun and promote community and resilience. Whether hiking through historic sites, exploring nature trails, or learning about the rich ecosystems in national parks, NPS has helped make every adventure possible.
A Year of Adventures and Milestones
The past year has been filled with remarkable experiences for military families. Since families stepped into their first BSCO event, the connection to nature has been palpable. We've celebrated numerous milestones, like families discovering new hiking trails, pitching tents for the first time, and even learning how to fish — simple moments transforming lives.
What makes these experiences even more impactful is that we’ve worked hard to eliminate the financial barriers and the overwhelming responsibility of trip planning that often prevent military families from accessing nature. With the support of our partners, we’ve provided all the necessary gear, logistics, and guidance, ensuring families can fully immerse themselves without stress or financial strain.
But that’s not all! BSCO families have had the unforgettable experience of camping in the Everglades, immersing themselves in the incredible landscapes of Florida's Everglades National Park, and even exploring the stunning Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. These extended trips allowed families to witness the raw beauty of nature in two of the most iconic national parks in the U.S. — from the tropical wetlands of the Everglades to the stunning volcanic landscapes of Hawaii. These experiences have created lifelong memories and helped military families build the strength and resilience from spending time in nature, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Partnering with Wilderness Inquiry: Going Further Into the Outdoors
Our partnership with Wilderness Inquiry has been instrumental in expanding access to immersive outdoor experiences for military families. Wilderness Inquiry leads our extended trips as experts in guided outdoor adventures, empowering families to explore national parks, paddle through scenic waterways with the Canoemobile program, and gain confidence in hiking and camping. Their expertise ensures that every family — regardless of experience level — feels welcomed, supported, and capable of recreating these adventures on their own. Wilderness Inquiry helps military families build lasting connections, resilience, and a lifelong love for nature by breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of belonging in the outdoors.
Growing Impact and Looking to the Future
Looking ahead, we’re excited for what the next year will bring. With more events, new park partnerships, and expanded exploration opportunities, BSCO continues to grow and evolve. We’re bringing families together to try new outdoor skills—whether it’s casting a line for the first time, navigating by the stars, or pitching in on community clean-up projects in national parks. No matter the skill, we're still creating connections and making memories!
As we move forward, we’ll continue to lean on our incredible partners, like NPS and Wilderness Inquiry, and look forward to new connections with ASYMCA’s across the country to help us reach even more military families and allow them to enjoy the outdoors. Whether through extended trips or local outdoor adventures, we’re dedicated to building stronger, more connected communities through the healing power of nature.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Supporters
None of this would be possible without the support of so many incredible people. First, thank our Outdoor Leaders, whose passion and leadership make every event a memorable experience. You’ve led families on incredible adventures and created lasting connections, and we’re so grateful for your dedication.
To the Blue Star Families staff, thank you for your hard work behind the scenes. Your commitment to making BSCO the incredible program it is today is felt daily.
Thank you to DHA and NPS for championing military health and wellness through outdoor experiences. Your commitment has ensured that military families feel welcome in national parks, public lands, and other outdoor spaces, empowering them to explore, recharge, and build a lifelong connection with nature. As we look ahead, we’re excited to expand these opportunities and continue making the outdoors accessible for all who serve.
Lastly, a big thank you to the military families participating in BSCO events. Your enthusiasm, energy, and willingness to show up and make these magical experiences make this program special. You inspire us to keep growing and reaching new heights.
Join Us and Stay Connected
As we reflect on the past year, we invite you to be a part of what comes next. Whether you’re a military family, veteran, or a supporter of those who serve, we encourage you to join The Neighborhood. By joining, you’ll stay connected with BSCO, receive updates on upcoming events, and become part of a thriving community of military families.
Learn more about Blue Star Families and how you can get involved by visiting Blue Star Families and joining the Blue Star Neighborhood.
Here’s to another year of adventure, connection, and building lifelong memories in the great outdoors!