SERVICE TRIPS FOR SURVIVING FAMILIES_
What are TMF Expeditions?
BUILDING COMMUNITY AMONG SURVIVING FAMILIES
TMF Service Expeditions are unique, service-based trips designed specifically for surviving family members of military fallen heroes. These 4-7 day trips offer families of the fallen an opportunity to connect with others who understand their loss while honoring their loved ones through service. Each experience offers participants a chance to find community, engage in critical personal development, and carry on their loved one’s legacy of service.
SERVICE-BASED TRIPS THAT HONOR FALLEN HEROES
Service Expeditions are open only to spouses, parents, siblings, and children of military fallen heroes. TMF has found the greatest benefits occur when participants are at least 2 years out from their loss. Activities and accommodations vary, with most requiring long hours outdoors serving and some physical challenges like strenuous hikes. Each Expedition offers surviving families the opportunity to create sustainable impact in communities through beautification or construction projects, or by assisting vulnerable populations. Participants are also encouraged to take what they've learned and apply it as Spartan leaders in their communities moving forward.
CONNECTING SURVIVING FAMILIES IN LOCATIONS ACROSS THE COUNTRY
TMF Expeditions allow surviving families to connect and serve in different locations throughout the year including Alaska, Montana, Texas, Arizona, and Puerto Rico. Service projects range from disaster recovery, home repair, and conservation efforts. Each TMF Expedition allows participants to make a sustainable impact by hosting service projects in partnership with local nonprofits.
Reflections from Surviving Families
Check out reflections from Expedition Participants on the impact of participation on their healing journeys.
Amber Pikey
Surviving Sister of PO2 Adam Smith, Navy
“This expedition was extremely meaningful. It was humbling and rewarding and we got to do it in honor of our loved ones. The longer it gets from when we lost my brother the more I feel like he could be forgotten and I want to his name to be remembered forever.
I’m more capable physically than I knew and I had a lot of time to reflect on character strengths. That’s something I can use to be a better person. It gave me the opportunity to talk about my brother and share his story. To me it’s an honor to be his sister.”
Amirah Goode
Surviving daughter of CPL Jordan Goode, Army
“I found this trip profoundly meaningful. Without sounding too dramatic, it truly changed my outlook on life itself. I’ve never been on that side of the country and it really opened my eyes to a new side of life I’d yet to experience.
The world is much bigger now. I learned that I’m capable of so much more than I think. I tried new things and faced fears I didn’t know I had. I felt like I was living up to what my father wanted, I was experiencing life that he wasn’t able to. I’m honoring my father by keeping pieces of him alive in every memory I make. It will change your perspective of your life and you’ll come home with new lenses and a bigger support system.”
Stephany Richards
Surviving spouse of 1LT Bruce Richards, Army
"There were many things that happened and that I was witness to that were quite literally life changing. Everything that TMF is healing and empowering. Everything that TMF is. We left feeling empowered to continue to answer the call into action, ‘If not me, then who…’
Hearing from my fellow Spartans how they feel like they are part of our love story was the biggest honor I could experience for both of us. I plan on continuing to live a life of actions, actions that bring good to this world.”
UPCOMING TMF EXPEDITIONS
TMF Expeditions typically take place once a quarter with revolving application deadlines. Please view the map below for upcoming opportunities. For further information, email expeditions@travismanion.org or complete the form here and a TMF staff member will contact you.
Serve in their Honor
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Survivor Expedition 2025 - Puerto Rico26 - Jan - 2025 thru 01-Feb-2025 Get Involved
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Additional Information
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Commonly Asked Questions
What are the costs associated with participating in a TMF Expedition?
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, TMF covers all travel, accommodation, food and service project related costs. Participants are encouraged to bring pocket money in case they'd like to purchase souvenirs.
Who is eligible for TMF Expeditions?
Expeditions are open to immediate surviving family members of fallen heroes including spouses and partners, parents, children, and siblings. Participants who have gotten the most out of this experience are at least 2 years out from their loss.
What are the age restrictions to go on an Expedition?
Participants must be over 18 to attend most TMF Expeditions, with the exception of one Teen Expedition offered once a year to surviving families that meet the above mentioned eligibility requirements aged 15-18 years old.
Can I apply for a TMF Expedition even if I’ve never volunteered with TMF before?
Yes, prior engagement with TMF is not required to apply to or attend an Expedition.
Will I have the opportunity to meet the other participants prior to our Expedition?
Yes, TMF staff will host virtual meetings prior to the in-person experience to ensure participants feel prepared for the trip and can begin building relationships with their group.
Who will I be sharing a room with?
It depends on the location of the Expedition, but participants are typically two to a room.
If I fill out an application, do I automatically get a spot on the trip?
Due to the high volume of applicants and limited spots, an application does not guarantee your attendance on a TMF Expedition. After you submit your application TMF staff will be in touch with you to alert you of your selection status.
Will I be provided with a packing list?
Yes, once you are selected for a TMF Expedition you’ll receive a packing list specific for that location.
Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
For additional questions or concerns, you can email expeditions@travismanion.org or complete the form here and a TMF staff member will contact you.
PAST TMF EXPEDITIONS
