Jacksonville Chapter
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Welcome to Blue Star Families of Jacksonville!
I am Wendy Layton, the Chapter Director here on the First Coast in beautiful Jacksonville, FL. I grew up as a military kid. Then, I became an active-duty Navy spouse, Ombudsman, Florida Air National Guard spouse, and today, I am a Veteran spouse. I have lived and served in our military and Veteran community in Jacksonville for over 25 years. It is my honor to be here and help you and your family however I can. Whether you are new to the counties of Duval, Clay, Nassau, or St. Johns, know that I am here to serve you.
Please let me know how I can do exactly that. I also welcome suggestions on how we can grow participation at our events, both locally and virtually. There are plenty of great opportunities to engage and fun that comes with being a volunteer. I invite you to follow our Facebook page to see what is coming up and connect with others in the community.
You are welcome to send me an email anytime with questions, concerns, or just to tell me you need someone to talk to. You belong here.
Wendy Layton
Jacksonville Chapter Director
[email protected]
Town Hall series
Our Homefront & Frontlines Town Hall Series features high-profile speakers covering topics of key importance to military members, Veterans, and their families.
Blue Star Welcome Week
From September 24 to October 2, 2022, communities across the U.S. will welcome military and Veteran families who are new to the neighborhood.
STARBUCKS: More than a Cup of Coffee
Together with Starbucks, we are committed to strengthening military and Veteran families and connecting Americans to those who serve through opportunities like regular Coffee Connects for military spouses, welcome to the community events, and Yellow Ribbon Trees.
Help build community by sharing your local favorites or signing up to volunteer.
Campaign for Inclusion
All Blue Star Families programming is informed by our research. For this reason, research and advocacy is a key pillar of our Campaign for Inclusion. While all Blue Star Families research in the future will continue to look at data through a racial equity and inclusion lens, our groundbreaking study: The Diverse Experiences of Military and Veteran Families of Color provides unparalleled insight into how military families experience military life.
Help sustain our community building efforts or volunteer!
Check out the following national and local resources to empower your family.
LOCAL
COVID-19 and Vaccine Resources
- Florida Department of Health
- Duval County Health Department
- Nassau County Health Department
- Clay County Health Department
- St. Johns County Health Department
- North Florida Veterans Health System
- Homebound Veterans/Vaccine Info
Racial Equity and Inclusion Resources
- Sesame Workshop’s Coming Together Commitment to Racial Justice
- Children & Nature Network – Equitable Access to the Outdoors
Welcome Resources
We are listening and working to ensure you have the chance for a fulfilling career during your military journey.