Contributions for 2022

You don’t necessarily get over it, you get through it. You carry this experience forward into a new year. You do not enter into this uncharted territory alone.

We wanted to share just a few of the hundreds of events hosted for TAPS by our TAPS Families This year.

Having moments of mindfulness, caring for oneself, being grateful, allowing things to just be even for a moment at a time can have lasting impacts.

This holiday season, we remember your loved one and hold you close in our heart. Your TAPS Family gets it, who understands that these are difficult days.

Read about what Leslie Jackson Vallade, surviving spouse of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Devin Scott Vallade, Sr., has learned on her grief journey.

You can find continued meaning in the holidays and in life. You can continue to live and love fully. You must grieve but you can also celebrate.

We’ve been inspired to see TAPS families navigating the holiday season by creating Holiday Tribute Trees in memory of their military loved ones.

In her role as a Helpline Associate, Vanessa takes from her experience to provide fellow survivors comfort, support, resources, and an understanding listener.

Our TAPS Men’s Program participants can attest that the stoicism can be pulled off for a time, but keeping it up as the days march on takes a toll.

Songwriter and Producer knows what it's like to lose a military family member, and, today, helps kids who, like him, have lost a loved one to military service.

Surviving daughter shares her Christmas Cracker Candy recipe which reminds her of special memories growing up in a military community.

Read about Sheri Lipscomb's, surviving spouse of U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Ricardo Lipscomb, experience at a Salute to Service event and more.

TAPS is your home for the holidays, your soft landing and safe space created to help you remember the love, celebrate the life, and share the journey together.

Get tips to help our children and teenagers traverse the holiday celebrations while also reconciling their feelings of grief.

Consider these ideas for reducing stress and easing the pain of grieving a loved one this holiday season.

Thanksgiving can be a challenging time for those who have an empty seat at their table. Your TAPS Family is here for you and you are not alone.

Volume 28, Issue 4

Event Photos: Survivors come together both in-person and online in fellowship in Long Beach, California.

Video discussion on practical strategies for choosing our own traditions which may mean exploring limiting beliefs about what life "should" look like.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is on Saturday, November 19, 2022 and is intended to be a day of healing throughout the world.

This Veterans Day, we thank Nathaniel and all those within the TAPS community who have and are currently serving in the United States Military.

Surviving sister remembers and honors her brother in this loving letter to her brother.

Video discussion on the ways to remember your loved one, enjoy family traditions, acknowledge your loss and take care of yourselves this holiday season.

TAPS is our family, a safe space where we honor our loved ones and remember lives lived in selfless service to America.

Surviving families were honored and recognized during the Rangers Football Club Remembrance Day fixture at Ibrox Stadium.

One of the ways we can help our children after loss is to give them tools to cope with the thoughts and emotions that accompany grief.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving women create a plan for healing and growth in Sedona, Arizona.

Surviving father shares how the NFL Salute to Service and teams4taps helped bring a smile on his surviving son's face.

November is Children's Grief Awareness Month. TAPS recognizes this important time of year in support of our bereaved children, teenagers, and families.

Grief is a journey without a book of instructions. We start our journey alone and scared. We put on 'masks' as a way to preserve and protect our hearts.

Event Photos: Survivors share time in the great outdoors with fellow survivors fly fishing at Tidal Basin, National Mall, Washington, D.C.

In 2021, Women's Empowerment welcomed more first-time attendees than any other TAPS Program, with 2,231 women attending nearly 160 online events.

Supporting others with loss can help create meaning from a loved one's death. Read how becoming a peer mentor helped a surviving spouse heal.

Read about Shelley Keas, Team TAPS participant and surviving spouse of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jeff Keas.

It’s repeated comments like, “I’m fine” and “One day at a time” that wear us down in our daily lives and drain on our emotional reserves when grieving.

At TAPS seminars, the TAPS peer-to-peer model and the healing power of connecting with someone who has walked in their shoes is displayed in full force.

TAPS was proud to have surviving families of toxic exposure in attendance at the White House to witness President Joe Biden sign the PACT Act into law.

Event Photos: Survivors share time in the great outdoors with fellow survivors fly fishing in Fletcher's Cove, Chesapeake & Ohio Canals, Washington, D.C.

The Dare to Lead™ program is a courage-building program based on the most significant findings from Dr. Brené Brown’s latest research.

TAPS partnership with the National Park Trust and Trout Unlimited helps create connections and coping skills close to home for surviving families.

This November, we will tell the stories of those who left empty seats at the table, and we will create new memories with others who understand.

Medal of Honor Recipient spoke to surviving military families at the TAPS 14th Annual National Military Suicide Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp.

October marks 28 years that TAPS has been coming alongside grieving military families, and our passion and mission remain more steadfast than ever.

In this wilderness of your grief, the touchstones are your trail markers. They are the signs that let you know you are on the right path.

This November, join with fellow survivors to acknowledge the bittersweet nature of the holidays and the emotions that can come along with them.

Event Photos, Adult and Youth Survivors come together in fellowship in Dallas, Texas.

For those who are grieving a loved one who died by suicide, TAPS is here to support you. TAPS created the valuable guidebook to help.

Volume 28, Issue 3

Using safe messaging when we talk and post about suicide makes a world of difference, reinforces hope, and ultimately, saves lives.

Read about a surviving mother mysterious collection of baseball cards found in her yard years after losing her son, U.S. Army SPC Jason Cooper.

Video discussion on the important roles that recreation, leisure, and play have in helping to heal the wounds of grief.

Medal of Honor Recipient Hershel "Woody" Williams was a Marine whose uncommon valor was equaled by his uncommon kindness.

Build internal capacity to deal with life's challenges and changes so during times of distress we can better cope, engage with life, and find purpose.

Read about Ideliz Mora-Cruz, surviving sister of U.S. Army SGT Geraldo Andre Mora Cruz and TAPS Survivor Care Team associate.

As a suicide loss survivor, what does suicide prevention mean to you?⁣ ⁣ We asked TAPS survivors of suicide loss this question and their answers were full of hope.⁣ ⁣

Event Photos: TAPS surviving women create a plan for healing and growth in Maumee, Ohio.

TAPS families had the chance visit with the Congressional leadership that supported the resolution for Gold Star Families Remembrance Week.

Video discussion on how to practice self-leadership, form habits that serve us, and practice extreme self-care, no matter your circumstances.

Video discussion on the critical connection between postvention and what suicide prevention means now after personal loss.

What are some things that you do to honor and remember your person or people who have died?

Read about Matt Daud, surviving father of U.S. Marine CPL Christopher Daud, retired airline pilot, TAPS Peer Mentor & TAPS Survivor Care Team associate.

This month, America recognizes Gold Star Families and TAPS offers resources available in suicide prevention or those seeking help from suicide.

Event Photos: Fundraiser with world-class entertainment featuring Frank Meyers, Anthony Smith, Wynn Varble, Brice Long, Jimmy Nichols.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving men honor their loved ones and connect with other men who understand in West Creek Ranch, Emigrant, Montana. .

The International Live Events Association Esprit Awards recognize excellence in industry professionals’ most creative and innovative events.

Using “hero” themes can help children cope with grief, endure life’s challenges, learn to forgive, and find meaning in life in the midst of painful experiences.

Event Photos: TAPS supporters join together in supporting the families of our fallen military members.

Video discussion on how to find continuity between “what was” and what is by creating a new “everyday” that works for you and your family.

This program focuses on 5 Pillars of Growth and Healing: personal development, career guidance, communications, financial stability, & service to others.

Read one surviving fiancé's journey toward healing and growth from suicide loss with help from Home Base Programs of Boston and TAPS.

TAPS is honored to be a leader in suicide postvention. We’re sharing resources available to those looking to get involved or those seeking help.

Video discussion on how the TAPS policy team is advocating for you on Capitol Hill on a variety of issues from remarriage to toxic exposure.

Surviving father discovers being honest with our emotions can unlock a new strength in us, empowering us to endure what we once thought was impossible.

Event Photos: Survivors come together both in-person and online in fellowship in San Antonio, Texas.

TAPS Peer Mentor Sonia Rai reflects on the nature of her relationship with her best friend and soulmate U.S. Air Force Captain John Graziano.

In addition to peer support and services that TAPS provides, we also connect you to grief resources close to home.

As headlines from Afghanistan faded from social media feeds and the nightly newscasts, TAPS support for the families they serve never wavers.

In this wilderness of your grief, the touchstones are your trail markers. They are the signs that let you know you are on the right path.

Video discussion on active grief versus passive grief in moving us beyond just coping, beyond just surviving after a loss.

This legislation ensures veterans exposed to burn pits, toxins, and airborne hazards while deployed are provided access to VA health care and benefits.

TAPS provides compassionate care to all those grieving the death of a military loved one, no matter when, where or how the death took place.

TAPS Young Adults connect with peers and professionals to help guide and inspire them as they continue building their adult lives and careers.

During my darkest moments after the death of my loved one, in nature, I always find affirmations of hope and healing.

Young adults’ passion for learning, thinking outside the box to align their own values and purpose with a fulfilling career were reignited at this event.

Here are some suggestions on how schools can provide a supportive environment for students who may be grieving the death of a loved one.

Peer Mentors are the foundation of the TAPS mission to provide compassionate care to all those grieving the death of a military loved one.

Get suggestions for better understanding how your child feels most comfortable being in the world, and how to best spend our energy parenting them.

Whether you are a surviving brother, father, battle buddy, adult child, or spouse, you have a home at TAPS.

Volume 28, Issue 2

Event Photos: TAPS Young Adults attended a 4-day, 3-night professional development conference hosted at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.

The national launch of the 3-digit dialing code on July 16, 2022 will provide free and confidential support, 24/7/365 through call, text, or chat.

You are part of a network we call the TAPS family, and it's more than a label. At TAPS events, there are opportunities to be truly who you are.

This first event is one of ten events in partnership with the National Park Trust that will take place over the next year.

Event Photos: Survivors come together both in-person and online in fellowship in Denver, Colorado.

Freedom is priceless. It should never be taken for granted. My wish for Afghanistan is the feeling of freedom I have found in America.

Event Photos: TAPS families participated 4th of July Celebration at the White House in Washington, D.C.

Event Photos: Fundraiser with world-class entertainment by Pam Tillis, Frank Myers, Jamie O'Neal, David Ernest Malloy, Jimmy Nichols, and Ed Montana.

Video discussion to discuss hands-on wellness tools, such as Tapping and the Heart Coherence procedure from the HeartMath Institute.

Event Photos: TAPS young adults gain real-world life skills to help transition into adulthood in Denver, Colorado.

Event Photos: Survivors share time in the great outdoors with fellow survivors fly fishing in Marietta, Georgia.

Event Photos: Military survivors set sail together from Orlando in fellowship on a cruise to the Bahamas.

Surviving son shares his complicated experience grieving for his father as a young teen while at the same time discovering his own identity.

June is PTSD Awareness Month and at TAPS, we recognize the importance of having open lines of communication on such difficult topics.

Home Base and TAPS offer specialized trauma treatment combined with peer-based support to those grieving the loss of a military loved one to suicide.

Event Photos: TAPS Surviving Military Men attended the Survivor Experience with Robert Irvine in Las Vegas, Nevada

Video discussion to explore Darcie Sims's four grief styles and explore practical ideas for supporting each of the different styles.

Event Photos: TAPS fundraiser held in Paramus, New Jersey by hosts Tom and Sharon Chisholm

Event Photos: Team TAPS participated June 4 and 5 at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic to raise money and awareness for TAPS.

Event Photos, May 27 - 30, 2022

Here’s how you can best use your time to give yourself as much attention as you give others while you are grieving.

More than 1200 military survivors, volunteers and staff gathered together for hope and healing in Arlington, Virginia over Memorial Day Weekend.

We are grateful to the American Veterans Center and the National Memorial Day Parade for including military surviving families in this special event.

For all of us in the TAPS family, every day is our Memorial Day. As military survivors we are our loved ones living legacies.

Video discussion on active and passive healing and how taking a step toward peer mentoring can support growth during the grief journey.

Scientific evidence suggests a link between therapeutic writing and the successful management of traumatic experiences. Read tips to get started.

In this wilderness of your grief, the touchstones are your trail markers. They are the signs that let you know you are on the right path.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving women create a plan for healing and growth in Boone, North Carolina.

If you are a surviving military child or sibling ages 18 - 30 and looking for an understanding and supportive community, join TAPS Young Adults.

His precious family, our nation, and our TAPS family will dearly miss TAPS Honorary Board member, the Honorable Robert J. Dole.

When one military family member serves, the entire family serves... and sacrifices. We honor you.

U.S. Army 2nd Lieutenant Clifford Valentino Gadsden's family announced the Atlanta Falcons 2nd Round Draft Pick at the 2022 NFL Draft in Las Vegas.

Event Photos: TAPS supporters join together in supporting the families of our fallen military members.

This year's award was presented to Technical Sergeant Clynton Trewyn, United States Air Force.

This year's award was presented to Matt Daud, Surviving father of Corporal Christopher Daud, United States Marine Corps.

Event Photos: TAPS hosted a Congressional Luncheon at the Army Navy Club in Washington, D.C.

In light of challenging times, we are even more thankful for the in-person and virtual opportunities that our partners helped provide for our TAPS families.

Surviving mother shares how attending TAPS Expeditions, Retreats and teams4taps events has helped her on the journey to healing.

We are a family of military survivors ready to embrace and connect all who grieve the death of a military loved one with resources, services and programs.

A conversation between TAPS Founder and President Bonnie Carroll and Robin Gargano held during the Finding the Beauty within Tragedy Summit.

Get parenting tips to help your grieving child problem solve, strengthen their sense of security, and provide moral support and encouragement.

Video discussion on tools and techniques to express yourself via written words while providing an opportunity to heal, grow, and feel empowered.

Children and teens have had their world turned inside out during the coronavirus pandemic. Understand the signs of grief and ways to help them heal.

Event Photos: TAPS young adults gain real-world life skills to help transition into adulthood in Charleston, South Carolina.

Event Photos: First Lady of Virginia Suzanne Youngkin toured TAPS headquarters in Arlington, Virginia

At our Family Camps we provide care, support, and a lot of fun to help improve communication and family dynamics.

Event Photos: TAPS fundraiser at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas to honor the legacy of our courageous heroes and in tribute to the Windy25 flight.

TAPS is America's family, and during this Month of the Military Child, we honor our youngest grievers – the children of our nation's fallen heroes.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving women create a plan for healing and growth in Charleston, South Carolina.

Find support and immerse yourself in the company of those who have the shared experience of grief and loss. Join your TAPS Family.

Discover the ways to support TAPS. We also welcome your creative ideas!

Volume 28, Issue 1

If you or your child are exploring post-secondary education opportunities, TAPS Education Support Services is at the ready to help you navigate the process.

Whether it is sitting on a back porch, taking a walk, going on a hike, or opening the window, nature improves our overall well-being.

Video recording discussion to learn strategies, validation, and guidance to help you better understand and cope with your grief journey.

The updated Online Community allows you to explore all of our online programs – online groups, workshops, and coping skills programs – in one place.

Our community of military survivors has a unique, complicated connection to war, and it's okay to not be okay right now. Here are some tips to help cope.

Storytelling can be done through our oral stories, but also through writing, painting, collaging, dancing, gardening, and so much more.

Event Photos: TAPS young adults gain real-world life skills to help transition into adulthood in Boston, Massachusetts.

Teton Ridge Foundation gave recognition and honor to over 250 surviving military families at The American Rodeo in Arlington, Texas on March 6, 2022.

Event Photos: TAPS Survivors move beyond your comfort zone with the support of others who understand in Anchorage, Alaska.

Our hearts remain with all those being impacted around the world. Connect with TAPS as you process these current events while still caring for yourself.

If you are grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one, TAPS is here to help connect your to grief counseling or therapy.

Video discussion on four basic concepts to facilitate a child’s understanding about death and grief and resources for families and caregivers.

Event Photos: Survivors come together both in-person and virtually in fellowship in Jacksonville, Florida.

Finding mental health help while grieving can move you forward even though it feels impossible. If you are ready to take the next step, call TAPS.

Event Photos: TAPS fundraiser held in Jupiter, Florida by hosts Tom and Sharon Chisholm

Check out what events are happening in February to to help us reinforce our relationship and remain connected with our special person in healthy ways.

Read ideas for remaining connected with that person you loved so dearly…strive to know them in a new way and be their footsteps in the world.

Download our one-page resource that offers age-appropriate words that will help our youngest survivors begin to understand what has transpired.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving women create a plan for healing and growth in Sedona, Arizona.

Event Photos: TAPS Families attended the NFL Pro Bowl Experience in Las Vega, Nevada

Video recording discussion on writing prompts that will help you chart a course for healthy coping, loving reflection, and self-discovery in 2022.

Event Photos: Survivors come together both in-person and virtually in fellowship in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Video recording discussion on when mourners feel they cannot express their loss fully because of the cultural stigma about how the person died.

As fellow survivors, your TAPS family continually lifts one another up with support and encouragement. Discover the ways to join your TAPS Family in 2022.

Rather than struggle against ourselves or set unrealistic expectations this new year, make friends with where you are. Discover some ways help.