MCFP Outreach-FEB 24 2012 Copy

8/2/2019 MCFP Outreach-FEB 24 2012 Copy

1/10

Image description.MC&FP bannerimage End ofimage description.

Image description.Robert L.GordonIII, DeputyAssistant SecretaryofDefense (MC&FP)End ofimage description.

Facilitating the endorsement of a current license held by a relocating spouse from another stateas long as the requirements are equivalent between states

Providing a temporary or provisional license to allow military spouses to work while fulfillingnew requirements, and

Expediting application procedures

Military Community and Family Policy WeeklyeNewsletter

States Step Up to Remove Barriers for Military Spouse Employment

Military spouses deserve every opportunity to have meaningful jobs and careers and should not behindered by the financial or administrative burden of getting a new license in their chosen career fieldwith every PCS move across state lines. We understand these are real concerns and are doing everythingwe can to ensure that you can pursue your career goals and help provide for your family.

The Department of the Treasury and DoD released a report this month highlighting the employmentchallenges of military spouses and what is being done to remove barriers for thousands of spouses withoccupational licenses. Whether you are a teacher, nurse, or health care worker, we are advocating forstates to pass legislation that makes it easier for you to obtain employment.

The report highlights concrete steps states can take to make it easier for military spouses to find workafter relocating, such as:

As of February 2012, thirteen states have introduced bills implementing these best practices, and we areencouraging more states to join them. If you are interested in learning more, access the full report,Supporting our Military Families: Best Practices for Streamlining Occupational Licensing Across StateLines, or visit MilitaryHOMEFRONT for a state-by-state breakdown.

We are even addressing special employment areas, such as the law. Unlike other occupations, attorneysdo not fall under normal state licensing agencies, and the bar examination process often costs thousandsof dollars and takes many months to complete. Because the law licenses are completed through theAmerican Bar Association (ABA) and state supreme courts, MC&FP is working with the MilitarySpouse JD Network, an organization that helps military spouses with law degrees navigate licensingrules. The Network's mission is to support military spouses by advocating for provisional barmembership, encouraging companies to hire military spouses, and providing a military spouse network

Page 1 of 10
http://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/f?p=MHF:DETAIL1:0::::SID,CID:20.40.500.575.0.0.0.0.0,20.40.500.575.500.120.0.0.0http://www.militaryspousejdnetwork.org/http://www.militaryspousejdnetwork.org/http://www.militaryspousejdnetwork.org/http://www.militaryspousejdnetwork.org/http://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/f?p=MHF:DETAIL1:0::::SID,CID:20.40.500.575.0.0.0.0.0,20.40.500.575.500.120.0.0.0http://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDF


2/10

MC&FP Weekly (February 24,2012) 2/27/2012

for support and information.

And there is more good news: this month, the ABA voted to support changes in state licensing rules formilitary spouses with law degrees. With this vote, the ABA has acknowledged the challenges facingmilitary spouses and is also encouraging states to do what they can to remove licensing barriers andsupport employment opportunities for them.

The team here at MC&FP and organizations like the Military Spouse JD Network are dedicated toeliminating barriers to portable and meaningful career options for military spouses. We will continue toupdate you with news on our efforts as well as what states are doing to support military spouses. If youhave any questions or would like to share your own experience related to licensing barriers, please joinour discussion. Your voices are helping shape and define the work that we do! Until next time, be well!

Page 2 of 10
https://forums.militaryonesource.mil/viewforum.php?f=284https://forums.militaryonesource.mil/viewforum.php?f=284


3/10


Joining Forces

Joining Forces

The Military OneSource Blog Brigade has a Bold, New Look and Seeks Military Spouse Bloggers

Great things are happening on the Military OneSource Blog Brigade! We are happy to announce that theBlog Brigade has a bold, new look, and an exciting, new opportunity for military spouse bloggers! Forthe first time, the Blog Brigade is accepting submissions for guest military spouse bloggers. Militaryspouse bloggers are the influencers in the blogosphere and it's time to tap into their military lifeexpertise. So, put your thinking caps on, milspouse bloggers, and be ready to share your knowledge andexperiences! You'll also hear from DoD leaders on program updates related to military life, as well asmore great posts from our staff bloggers. Want to know more? Visit the Military OneSource BlogBrigade today!

Page 3 of 10
https://blog-brigade.militaryonesource.mil/https://blog-brigade.militaryonesource.mil/https://blog-brigade.militaryonesource.mil/https://blog-brigade.militaryonesource.mil/https://blog-brigade.militaryonesource.mil/https://blog-brigade.militaryonesource.mil/


4/10

Order an appetizer-sized portion or a side dish instead of an entre.

Share a main dish with a friend.

If you can chill the extra food right away, take leftovers home in a "doggy bag."

When your food is delivered, set aside or pack half of it to go immediately.

Resign from the "clean your plate club" - when you've eaten enough, leave the rest.

Ask for salad dressing to be served "on the side" so you can add only as much as you want.

Order foods that do not have creamy sauces or gravies.

Add little or no butter to your food.

Choose fruits for dessert most often.


Weekly Tips

Military Community and Family Policy Weekly Tips

Nutrition Tip of the Week - Tips for Eating Healthy When Eating Out

While most people eat out from time, many struggle with figuring how they can both eat out and behealthy at the same time. Making a few simple changes is all it takes. If main portions at a restaurant arelarger than you want, try one of these strategies to keep from overeating:

To keep your meal moderate in calories, fat, and sugars:

Look for more tips in the upcoming weeks on eating healthy while you're out.

Parenting Tip of the Week - When to Keep Sick Children Home from School

If your child has an elevated temperature of 100 degrees and other symptoms of illness, should you keephim or her at home? Yes. Your child should be fever free for a complete school day before returning toschool. In general, there are two reasons to keep sick children at home:

1. The child does not feel well enough to participate comfortably in usual activities.

2. The illness is on DoDEA's list of symptoms or illness for which temporary exclusion is recommendedfor the health and safety of your child as well as other children. The list can be found here.

In general, don't forget to reinforce the practice of coughing or sneezing into a sleeve or upper arminstead of hands and remind your children to wash their hands often.

Let's Move/Childhood Obesity Tip of the Week - Tips to Help You Eat More Seafood

Twice a week, make seafood-fish and shellfish-the main protein food on your plate.* Seafood contains arange of nutrients, including healthy omega-3 fats. According to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines forAmericans, eating about eight ounces per week (less for young children) of a variety of seafood can helpprevent heart disease.

Eat a variety of seafood. Include some that are higher in omega-3s and lower in mercury, such assalmon, trout, oysters, Atlantic and Pacific mackerel, herring, and sardines.

Page 4 of 10
http://www.militaryk12partners.dodea.edu/docs/parents-when-keep-child-home.pdfhttp://www.militaryk12partners.dodea.edu/docs/parents-when-keep-child-home.pdf


5/10

Don't Overdraw Your Checking Account or Debit Card. Making ends meet during aneconomic downturn can put a strain on family budgets. While overdraft protection may seem likea helpful feature on a checking account or debit card, overdraft fees can add up. To avoid thatexpense, balance your checkbook regularly and consider opting out of programs thatautomatically approve ATM and debit card transactions.


Keep it lean and flavorful. Try grilling, broiling, roasting, or baking-they don't add extra fat. Avoidbreading or frying seafood and creamy sauces, which add calories and fat. Using spices or herbs, such asdill, chili powder, paprika, or cumin, and lemon or lime juice, can add flavor without adding salt.

Shellfish counts too! Oysters, mussels, clams, and calamari (squid) all supply healthy omega-3s. Trymussels marinara, oyster stew, steamed clams, or pasta with calamari.

Keep seafood on hand. Canned seafood, such as canned salmon, tuna, or sardines, is quick and easy touse. Canned white tuna is higher in omega-3s, but canned "light" tuna is lower in mercury.

Cook it safely. Check oysters, mussels, and clams before cooking. If shells don't clamp shut when youtap them, throw them away. After cooking, also toss any that didn't open. This means that they may notbe safe to eat. Cook shrimp, lobster, and scallops until they are opaque (milky white). Cook fish to145F, until it flakes with a fork.

Get creative with seafood. Think beyond the fish fillet. Try salmon patties, a shrimp stir-fry, grilledfish tacos, or clams with whole-wheat pasta. Add variety by trying a new fish such as grilled Atlantic orPacific mackerel, herring on a salad, or oven-baked pollock.

Put it on a salad or in a sandwich. Top a salad with grilled scallops, shrimp, or crab in place of steakor chicken. Use canned tuna or salmon for sandwiches in place of deli meats, which are often higher insodium.

Shop smart. Eating more seafood does not have to be expensive. Whiting, tilapia, sardines, cannedtuna, and some frozen seafood are usually lower cost options. Check the local newspaper, online, and atthe store for sales, coupons, and specials to help save money on seafood.

Grow up healthy with seafood. Omega-3 fats from seafood can help improve nervous systemdevelopment in infants and children. Serve seafood to children twice a week in portions appropriate fortheir age and appetite. A variety of seafood lower in mercury should also be part of a healthy diet for

women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Know your seafood portions To get eight ounces of seafooda week, use these as guides: A drained can of tuna is about three to four ounces, a salmon steak rangesfrom four to six ounces, and one small trout is about three ounces.

Go to www.ChooseMyPlate.gov for more information.

*This recommendation does not apply to vegetarians.

Financial Tip of the Week - Weathering Tough Economic Times - Twelve Tips for 2012 (Part II)

Tough economic times have taken a toll on many Americans over the last couple of years. But makingsound financial decisions and saving for the future can help you weather financial storms. The start of anew year is a great time to take stock of your finances, so the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority(FINRA) Investor Education Foundation has put together these practical tips that can help keep yourfinances on course in 2012.

Page 5 of 10
http://www.choosemyplate.gov/http://www.choosemyplate.gov/


6/10

Do a Background Check on Your Financial Professional. Far too few investors have reportedchecking the background of their investment professional with a state or federal regulator.Investing a few minutes of your time to take this free and easy step could save you time, moneyand other trouble down the road. FINRA BrokerCheck is a free tool that allows investors tocheck the professional background of brokerage firms and individual brokers.

Keep Your Insurance Coverage Current. The start of a new year is a good time to assesswhether your insurance coverage aligns with your needs. You want to make sure that recent life

changes have not left you under- or over-insured. If your children have left the home and youhave paid off your house, you might need less life insurance than someone who is financiallyresponsible for others or who has a mortgage.

Diversify Your Investments. Volatile markets can make investing a challenge, but spreadingyour investments both among different asset classes - meaning stocks, bonds and cash - andwithin each asset class can reduce your risk. For more on risk and smart diversificationstrategies, read FINRA's Managing Investment Risk.

Save for College Using Tax-Advantaged Accounts. If you have children, save for collegeusing tax-advantaged savings accounts such as a 529 plan or Coverdell Education SavingsAccount. The FINRA Foundation's state-by-state survey found that less than one-third (only 31percent) of respondents with financially dependent children have money set aside for college. Ofthose who are saving for college, less than one-third reported having used a tax-advantaged

savings account. The earlier you start, the more financially prepared you will be to cover therising costs of higher education. Compare college savings options, analyze 529 plan expenses,and more at FINRA's Smart Saving for College resource center.

Find Free, Reliable Financial Education Resources in Your Community. In communitiesacross the country, the FINRA Foundation's partnerships with organizations like the AmericanLibrary Association and United Way Worldwide have made it easier to find the help you need tokeep your finances on track. The Foundation's grant-making programs have built a network ofhundreds of partnerships with libraries, social service organizations, schools, universities andothers to expand access to research-based financial and investor education information. Foradditional information and resources, visit Smart Investing @ Your Library and FinancialEducation in Your Community.


Spouse Tip of the Week - License and Certification Initiatives for Military Spouse PortableCareers

According to the February 2012 "Supporting Our Military Families: Best Practices for StreamliningOccupational Licensing Across State Lines" report published by the Departments of Defense andTreasury, military spouses are ten times more likely to have moved across state lines in the last yearcompared to the US population. On average, 15 percent of military spouses reported moving across statelines in the past twelve months, compared to only 1.5 percent of all others.

Because 35 percent of military spouses in today's labor force are in portable career occupations that havelicensing requirements and because they move across state lines much more than the general population,complicated licensing processes are disproportionately burdensome for them.

The chart below shows which of the top 20 most popular portable career occupations are most highlyimpacted for military spouses in the workforce: pre-k through twelfth grade teaching, followed by childcare services, and nursing. Three of the most popular career fields - business and finance, education, andallied health - all have occupations that require licenses and credentials which vary across state lines.

To address this potential barrier to spouse employment continuity during times of relocation, DoD isencouraging military spouses to use their Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO)counseling services at (800) 342-9647 and the MyCAA Program which offers up to $4,000 for spouses

Page 6 of 10
http://mce_host/pls/psgprod/Tough%20economic%20times%20have%20taken%20a%20toll%20on%20many%20Americans%20over%20the%20last%20couple%20of%20years.%20But%20making%20sound%20financial%20decisions%20and%20saving%20for%20the%20future%20can%20help%20you%20weather%20financial%20storms.%20The%20start%20of%20a%20new%20year%20is%20a%20great%20time%20to%20take%20stock%20of%20your%20finances,%20so%20the%20Financial%20Industry%20Regulatory%20Authority%20(FINRA)%20Investor%20Education%20Foundation%20has%20put%20together%20these%20practical%20tips%20that%20can%20help%20keep%20your%20finances%20on%20course%20in%202012.%201.%20Don%92t%20Overdraw%20Your%20Checking%20Account%20or%20Debit%20Card.%20Making%20ends%20meet%20during%20an%20economic%20downturn%20can%20put%20a%20strain%20on%20family%20budgets.%20While%20overdraft%20protection%20may%20seem%20like%20a%20helpful%20feature%20on%20a%20checking%20account%20or%20debit%20card,%20overdraft%20fees%20can%20add%20up.%20To%20avoid%20that%20expense,%20balance%20your%20checkbook%20regularly%20and%20consider%20opting%20out%20of%20programs%20that%20automatically%20approve%20ATM%20and%20debit%20card%20transactions.%202.%20Do%20a%20Background%20Check%20on%20Your%20Financial%20Professional.%20Far%20too%20few%20investors%20have%20reported%20checking%20the%20background%20of%20their%20investment%20professional%20with%20a%20state%20or%20federal%20regulator.%20Investing%20a%20few%20minutes%20of%20your%20time%20to%20take%20this%20free%20and%20easy%20step%20could%20save%20you%20time,%20money%20and%20other%20trouble%20down%20the%20road.%20FINRA%20BrokerCheck%ae%20is%20a%20free%20tool%20that%20allows%20investors%20to%20check%20the%20professional%20background%20of%20brokerage%20firms%20and%20individual%20brokers.%203.%20Keep%20Your%20Insurance%20Coverage%20Current.%20The%20start%20of%20a%20new%20year%20is%20a%20good%20time%20to%20assess%20whether%20your%20insurance%20coverage%20aligns%20with%20your%20needs.%20You%20want%20to%20make%20sure%20that%20recent%20life%20changes%20have%20not%20left%20you%20under-%20or%20over-insured.%20If%20your%20children%20have%20left%20the%20home%20and%20you%20have%20paid%20off%20your%20house,%20you%20might%20need%20less%20life%20insurance%20than%20someone%20who%20is%20financially%20responsible%20for%20others%20or%20who%20has%20a%20mortgage.%204.%20Diversify%20Your%20Investments.%20Volatile%20markets%20can%20make%20investing%20a%20challenge,%20but%20spreading%20your%20investments%20both%20among%20different%20asset%20classes%20%97%20meaning%20stocks,%20bonds%20and%20cash%20%97%20and%20within%20each%20asset%20class%20can%20reduce%20your%20risk.%20For%20more%20on%20risk%20and%20smart%20diversification%20strategies,%20read%20FINRA%92s%20Managing%20Investment%20Risk.%205.%20Save%20for%20College%20Using%20Tax-Advantaged%20Accounts.%20If%20you%20have%20children,%20save%20for%20college%20using%20tax-advantaged%20savings%20accounts%20such%20as%20a%20529%20plan%20or%20Coverdell%20Education%20Savings%20Account.%20The%20FINRA%20Foundation%92s%20state-by-state%20survey%20found%20that%20less%20than%20one-third%20(only%2031%20percent)%20of%20respondents%20with%20financially%20dependent%20children%20have%20money%20set%20aside%20for%20college.%20Of%20those%20who%20are%20saving%20for%20college,%20less%20than%20one-third%20reported%20having%20used%20a%20tax-advantaged%20savings%20account.%20The%20earlier%20you%20start,%20the%20more%20financially%20prepared%20you%20will%20be%20to%20cover%20the%20rising%20costs%20of%20higher%20education.%20Compare%20college%20savings%20options,%20analyze%20529%20plan%20expenses,%20and%20more%20at%20FINRA%92s%20Smart%20Saving%20for%20College%20resource%20center.%206.%20Find%20Free,%20Reliable%20Financial%20Education%20Resources%20in%20Your%20Community.%20In%20communities%20across%20the%20country,%20the%20FINRA%20Foundation%92s%20partnerships%20with%20organizations%20like%20the%20American%20Library%20Association%20and%20United%20Way%20Worldwide%20have%20made%20it%20easier%20to%20find%20the%20help%20you%20need%20to%20keep%20your%20finances%20on%20track.%20The%20Foundation%92s%20grant-making%20programs%20have%20built%20a%20network%20of%20hundreds%20of%20partnerships%20with%20libraries,%20social%20service%20organizations,%20schools,%20universities%20and%20others%20to%20expand%20access%20to%20research-based%20financial%20and%20investor%20education%20information.%20For%20additional%20information%20and%20resources,%20visit%20Smart%20Investing%20@%20Your%20Library%20and%20Financial%20Education%20in%20Your%20Community.%20http://www.finra.org/Investors/SmartInvesting/AdvancedInvesting/ManagingInvestmentRisk/http://www.finra.org/Investors/SmartInvesting/SmartSavingforCollege/http://smartinvesting.ala.org/http://www.finrafoundation.org/grants/awarded/community/http://www.finrafoundation.org/grants/awarded/community/http://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.defense.gov/home/pdf/Occupational_Licensing_and_Military_Spouses_Report_vFINAL.PDFhttp://www.finrafoundation.org/grants/awarded/community/http://www.finrafoundation.org/grants/awarded/community/http://smartinvesting.ala.org/http://www.finra.org/Investors/SmartInvesting/SmartSavingforCollege/http://www.finra.org/Investors/SmartInvesting/AdvancedInvesting/ManagingInvestmentRisk/http://mce_host/pls/psgprod/Tough%20economic%20times%20have%20taken%20a%20toll%20on%20many%20Americans%20over%20the%20last%20couple%20of%20years.%20But%20making%20sound%20financial%20decisions%20and%20saving%20for%20the%20future%20can%20help%20you%20weather%20financial%20storms.%20The%20start%20of%20a%20new%20year%20is%20a%20great%20time%20to%20take%20stock%20of%20your%20finances,%20so%20the%20Financial%20Industry%20Regulatory%20Authority%20(FINRA)%20Investor%20Education%20Foundation%20has%20put%20together%20these%20practical%20tips%20that%20can%20help%20keep%20your%20finances%20on%20course%20in%202012.%201.%20Don%92t%20Overdraw%20Your%20Checking%20Account%20or%20Debit%20Card.%20Making%20ends%20meet%20during%20an%20economic%20downturn%20can%20put%20a%20strain%20on%20family%20budgets.%20While%20overdraft%20protection%20may%20seem%20like%20a%20helpful%20feature%20on%20a%20checking%20account%20or%20debit%20card,%20overdraft%20fees%20can%20add%20up.%20To%20avoid%20that%20expense,%20balance%20your%20checkbook%20regularly%20and%20consider%20opting%20out%20of%20programs%20that%20automatically%20approve%20ATM%20and%20debit%20card%20transactions.%202.%20Do%20a%20Background%20Check%20on%20Your%20Financial%20Professional.%20Far%20too%20few%20investors%20have%20reported%20checking%20the%20background%20of%20their%20investment%20professional%20with%20a%20state%20or%20federal%20regulator.%20Investing%20a%20few%20minutes%20of%20your%20time%20to%20take%20this%20free%20and%20easy%20step%20could%20save%20you%20time,%20money%20and%20other%20trouble%20down%20the%20road.%20FINRA%20BrokerCheck%ae%20is%20a%20free%20tool%20that%20allows%20investors%20to%20check%20the%20professional%20background%20of%20brokerage%20firms%20and%20individual%20brokers.%203.%20Keep%20Your%20Insurance%20Coverage%20Current.%20The%20start%20of%20a%20new%20year%20is%20a%20good%20time%20to%20assess%20whether%20your%20insurance%20coverage%20aligns%20with%20your%20needs.%20You%20want%20to%20make%20sure%20that%20recent%20life%20changes%20have%20not%20left%20you%20under-%20or%20over-insured.%20If%20your%20children%20have%20left%20the%20home%20and%20you%20have%20paid%20off%20your%20house,%20you%20might%20need%20less%20life%20insurance%20than%20someone%20who%20is%20financially%20responsible%20for%20others%20or%20who%20has%20a%20mortgage.%204.%20Diversify%20Your%20Investments.%20Volatile%20markets%20can%20make%20investing%20a%20challenge,%20but%20spreading%20your%20investments%20both%20among%20different%20asset%20classes%20%97%20meaning%20stocks,%20bonds%20and%20cash%20%97%20and%20within%20each%20asset%20class%20can%20reduce%20your%20risk.%20For%20more%20on%20risk%20and%20smart%20diversification%20strategies,%20read%20FINRA%92s%20Managing%20Investment%20Risk.%205.%20Save%20for%20College%20Using%20Tax-Advantaged%20Accounts.%20If%20you%20have%20children,%20save%20for%20college%20using%20tax-advantaged%20savings%20accounts%20such%20as%20a%20529%20plan%20or%20Coverdell%20Education%20Savings%20Account.%20The%20FINRA%20Foundation%92s%20state-by-state%20survey%20found%20that%20less%20than%20one-third%20(only%2031%20percent)%20of%20respondents%20with%20financially%20dependent%20children%20have%20money%20set%20aside%20for%20college.%20Of%20those%20who%20are%20saving%20for%20college,%20less%20than%20one-third%20reported%20having%20used%20a%20tax-advantaged%20savings%20account.%20The%20earlier%20you%20start,%20the%20more%20financially%20prepared%20you%20will%20be%20to%20cover%20the%20rising%20costs%20of%20higher%20education.%20Compare%20college%20savings%20options,%20analyze%20529%20plan%20expenses,%20and%20more%20at%20FINRA%92s%20Smart%20Saving%20for%20College%20resource%20center.%206.%20Find%20Free,%20Reliable%20Financial%20Education%20Resources%20in%20Your%20Community.%20In%20communities%20across%20the%20country,%20the%20FINRA%20Foundation%92s%20partnerships%20with%20organizations%20like%20the%20American%20Library%20Association%20and%20United%20Way%20Worldwide%20have%20made%20it%20easier%20to%20find%20the%20help%20you%20need%20to%20keep%20your%20finances%20on%20track.%20The%20Foundation%92s%20grant-making%20programs%20have%20built%20a%20network%20of%20hundreds%20of%20partnerships%20with%20libraries,%20social%20service%20organizations,%20schools,%20universities%20and%20others%20to%20expand%20access%20to%20research-based%20financial%20and%20investor%20education%20information.%20For%20additional%20information%20and%20resources,%20visit%20Smart%20Investing%20@%20Your%20Library%20and%20Financial%20Education%20in%20Your%20Community.%20http://mce_host/pls/psgprod/Tough%20economic%20times%20have%20taken%20a%20toll%20on%20many%20Americans%20over%20the%20last%20couple%20of%20years.%20But%20making%20sound%20financial%20decisions%20and%20saving%20for%20the%20future%20can%20help%20you%20weather%20financial%20storms.%20The%20start%20of%20a%20new%20year%20is%20a%20great%20time%20to%20take%20stock%20of%20your%20finances,%20so%20the%20Financial%20Industry%20Regulatory%20Authority%20(FINRA)%20Investor%20Education%20Foundation%20has%20put%20together%20these%20practical%20tips%20that%20can%20help%20keep%20your%20finances%20on%20course%20in%202012.%201.%20Don%92t%20Overdraw%20Your%20Checking%20Account%20or%20Debit%20Card.%20Making%20ends%20meet%20during%20an%20economic%20downturn%20can%20put%20a%20strain%20on%20family%20budgets.%20While%20overdraft%20protection%20may%20seem%20like%20a%20helpful%20feature%20on%20a%20checking%20account%20or%20debit%20card,%20overdraft%20fees%20can%20add%20up.%20To%20avoid%20that%20expense,%20balance%20your%20checkbook%20regularly%20and%20consider%20opting%20out%20of%20programs%20that%20automatically%20approve%20ATM%20and%20debit%20card%20transactions.%202.%20Do%20a%20Background%20Check%20on%20Your%20Financial%20Professional.%20Far%20too%20few%20investors%20have%20reported%20checking%20the%20background%20of%20their%20investment%20professional%20with%20a%20state%20or%20federal%20regulator.%20Investing%20a%20few%20minutes%20of%20your%20time%20to%20take%20this%20free%20and%20easy%20step%20could%20save%20you%20time,%20money%20and%20other%20trouble%20down%20the%20road.%20FINRA%20BrokerCheck%ae%20is%20a%20free%20tool%20that%20allows%20investors%20to%20check%20the%20professional%20background%20of%20brokerage%20firms%20and%20individual%20brokers.%203.%20Keep%20Your%20Insurance%20Coverage%20Current.%20The%20start%20of%20a%20new%20year%20is%20a%20good%20time%20to%20assess%20whether%20your%20insurance%20coverage%20aligns%20with%20your%20needs.%20You%20want%20to%20make%20sure%20that%20recent%20life%20changes%20have%20not%20left%20you%20under-%20or%20over-insured.%20If%20your%20children%20have%20left%20the%20home%20and%20you%20have%20paid%20off%20your%20house,%20you%20might%20need%20less%20life%20insurance%20than%20someone%20who%20is%20financially%20responsible%20for%20others%20or%20who%20has%20a%20mortgage.%204.%20Diversify%20Your%20Investments.%20Volatile%20markets%20can%20make%20investing%20a%20challenge,%20but%20spreading%20your%20investments%20both%20among%20different%20asset%20classes%20%97%20meaning%20stocks,%20bonds%20and%20cash%20%97%20and%20within%20each%20asset%20class%20can%20reduce%20your%20risk.%20For%20more%20on%20risk%20and%20smart%20diversification%20strategies,%20read%20FINRA%92s%20Managing%20Investment%20Risk.%205.%20Save%20for%20College%20Using%20Tax-Advantaged%20Accounts.%20If%20you%20have%20children,%20save%20for%20college%20using%20tax-advantaged%20savings%20accounts%20such%20as%20a%20529%20plan%20or%20Coverdell%20Education%20Savings%20Account.%20The%20FINRA%20Foundation%92s%20state-by-state%20survey%20found%20that%20less%20than%20one-third%20(only%2031%20percent)%20of%20respondents%20with%20financially%20dependent%20children%20have%20money%20set%20aside%20for%20college.%20Of%20those%20who%20are%20saving%20for%20college,%20less%20than%20one-third%20reported%20having%20used%20a%20tax-advantaged%20savings%20account.%20The%20earlier%20you%20start,%20the%20more%20financially%20prepared%20you%20will%20be%20to%20cover%20the%20rising%20costs%20of%20higher%20education.%20Compare%20college%20savings%20options,%20analyze%20529%20plan%20expenses,%20and%20more%20at%20FINRA%92s%20Smart%20Saving%20for%20College%20resource%20center.%206.%20Find%20Free,%20Reliable%20Financial%20Education%20Resources%20in%20Your%20Community.%20In%20communities%20across%20the%20country,%20the%20FINRA%20Foundation%92s%20partnerships%20with%20organizations%20like%20the%20American%20Library%20Association%20and%20United%20Way%20Worldwide%20have%20made%20it%20easier%20to%20find%20the%20help%20you%20need%20to%20keep%20your%20finances%20on%20track.%20The%20Foundation%92s%20grant-making%20programs%20have%20built%20a%20network%20of%20hundreds%20of%20partnerships%20with%20libraries,%20social%20service%20organizations,%20schools,%20universities%20and%20others%20to%20expand%20access%20to%20research-based%20financial%20and%20investor%20education%20information.%20For%20additional%20information%20and%20resources,%20visit%20Smart%20Investing%20@%20Your%20Library%20and%20Financial%20Education%20in%20Your%20Community.%20


7/10


8/10


To learn more about what states are doing to make it easier for relocating military spouses to get to workmore quickly when facing new state occupational licensing and credentialing requirements, read the"Supporting Military Families" report referenced (and linked) above, and visit DoD'sUSA4MilitaryFamilies website for the latest updates as additional states are continuing to come onboardwith best practice innovations.

Here are some of the licensing and credentialing actions states have taken to help relocating military

spouses:

Obtainable EndorsementMilitary spouses can obtain an endorsement to a current license.

Expedited License/Temporary LicenseMilitary spouses can obtain a license through expedited processes that may include temporary licensingand/or other expedited functions (regardless if they qualify for an endorsement).

Unemployment CompensationMilitary spouses are eligible to receive unemployment compensation for leaving a job because of amilitary move.

Relocation Tip of the Week - Relocation Assistance Program

Have you attended a PCS/Smooth Moves class before one of your moves? Contact your installationRelocation Assistance Program Manager today! The Relocation Assistance Program located in theFamily Centers on an installation is designed to assist service and family members with managing theirpermanent change of station moves. Specifically, the program offers all the resources and toolsnecessary to successfully manage a move. The office has worldwide libraries of information oninstallations; is responsible for the information in Plan My Move and MilitaryINSTALLATIONS;provides workshops on moving related issues such as renting and buying homes, cultural adaptation,citizenship and immigration, and moving with children, to name a few. The program generally has a

lending closet providing basic household equipment for service and family members to use until theirown furnishings arrive. The Relocation Assistance Program is a great resource for assisting with spousalemployment and child care concerns and answering financial questions related to moving. Servicemembers and their families can access emergency financial assistance such as food closets andemergency loans, if needed, through the Relocation Assistance Program.

Another important role of the program is to train sponsors and connect service members with sponsorsto facilitate swift assimilation into the new unit. On most installations, the Relocation AssistanceProgram also runs a youth sponsorship program.

Page 8 of 10
http://www.usa4militaryfamilies.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/f?p=USA4:ISSUE:0::::P2_ISSUE:2http://planmymove.mhf.dod.mil/http://apps.mhf.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/f?p=131:5:0::::url:type=external%7curl=http%3A//www.militaryinstallations.dod.mil/http://apps.mhf.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/f?p=131:5:0::::url:type=external%7curl=http%3A//www.militaryinstallations.dod.mil/http://planmymove.mhf.dod.mil/http://www.usa4militaryfamilies.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/f?p=USA4:ISSUE:0::::P2_ISSUE:2


9/10


In the News

We've captured the latest Quality of Life (QOL) information, as well as recent additions to the MilitaryCommunity & Family Policy (MC&FP) collection of websites, including MilitaryHOMEFRONT. All inone location! For a complete listing of QOL topic areas and information, please return to the

MilitaryHOMEFRONT homepage.

In the NewsNotable Quality of Life developments and Department of Defense announcements and alerts. NewParents Can Stay

Connected During DeploymentDeployments can be challenging for any military family, including those who are expecting or caring fora new child. Fortunately, while experiencing stress is a common reaction during deployment, no militaryfamily is alone.

DoD Works to Ease Troop Transition to Credentialed JobsThe Defense Department is working to break down credentialing barriers for service members andveterans preparing to enter the civilian workforce, a DOD official said today.

It's Never Too Early to Save for Your RetirementThere are many paths to a comfortable and financially secure retirement, but whichever one you choose,the cardinal rule for retirement planning is to start early! Your retirement savings grow by compoundinginterest year after year. The earlier you start to save, the more time your money has to compoundinterest, and as the money in your account grows, its potential to earn even more interest on theincreased amount grows as well.

Cold Deals at Hot Savings During Frozen Food MonthThroughout March, Defense Commissary Agency's industry partners - vendors, suppliers and brokers -will host many in-store promotions and provide extra savings focused around Frozen Food Month.Overseas stores may have substitute events for certain promotional programs.

DoD Spotlights Value of Financial FitnessCiting the potentially devastating impact of financial issues on career and home life, officials areencouraging troops and their families to build financial fitness by kick-starting a savings plan andreducing their debt.

Maintaining Relationships with Loved Ones During DeploymentMilitary spouses and significant others provide an invaluable source of support to today's service

members. Loved ones can play a vital role in offering encouragement during a military career -especially during deployments when separation often goes hand-in-hand with concern for the safety ofservice members, coping as a single parent at home or worries about money or legal troubles.

Teaching Financial Responsibility to Your ChildrenYour kids learn all about reading, writing, and arithmetic in school, but when it comes to saving andspending, it's your turn to be the teacher! Kids of almost any age can learn the basics of smart moneymanagement, so start early and provide ongoing lessons and guidance as they grow to get your kids onthe path to lifelong financial security.

Page 9 of 10
http://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/02/new-parents-can-stay-connected-during-deployment/http://www.defense.gov//News/NewsArticle.aspx?ID=67290http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/02/its-never-too-early-to-save-for-your-retirement/https://www.commissaries.com/press_room/press_release/2012/DeCA_15_12.cfmhttp://www.defense.gov//News/NewsArticle.aspx?ID=67266http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/02/maintaining-relationships-with-loved-ones-during-deployment/http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/02/teaching-financial-responsibility-to-your-children/http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/02/teaching-financial-responsibility-to-your-children/http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/02/maintaining-relationships-with-loved-ones-during-deployment/http://www.defense.gov//News/NewsArticle.aspx?ID=67266https://www.commissaries.com/press_room/press_release/2012/DeCA_15_12.cfmhttp://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/02/its-never-too-early-to-save-for-your-retirement/http://www.defense.gov//News/NewsArticle.aspx?ID=67290http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/02/new-parents-can-stay-connected-during-deployment/http://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/


10/10

Image description.Two NationalGuard service membersEnd ofimage description.


Guard and Reserve

Mar. 3-4 - Guard and Reserve - Charleston, WVMar. 9-10 - Army National Guard - Walla-Walla, WA

Page 10 of 10

MCFP Outreach-FEB 24 2012 Copy

Documents

Transcript of MCFP Outreach-FEB 24 2012 Copy