Barbara Dominguez

Share your military spouse story:
My journey as a military spouse began two and a half years ago when I married my husband, CSM Adolfo Dominguez, who has proudly served in the Army for over 23 years. Together, we have a blended family of six amazing children. I wear many hats: wife, mom, cook, housekeeper, mentor, and fitness professional who loves baking. I am resilient, focused, determined, and passionate. I strive to leave our world better each day, guided by my faith and driven by resilience and passion. Our unexpected love story blossomed when I was starting life over in my 40s. Since then, I've faced challenges that have profoundly shaped me, particularly our first PCS from Fort Stewart to the D.C. area. Embraced by a new community, I found joy in meeting other service members and their families. I'm honored to inspire and support others in the military and veteran communities. My love of people gives me the chance to meet other Servicemembers, spouses, and families from all over the world. My experiences can help others navigate through their challenges. I am blessed that I can inspire, motivate, and encourage others by being a group fitness instructor and working with the public. As a military spouse, I do the same for our military and veteran communities. It’s exciting to be a part of something big, and being a part of any community is huge. It is an honor and a privilege for me to be a part of something bigger than myself. I have learned so much and am excited to continue on this journey. Our first PCS together from Fort Stewart, Georgia, to JBM-HH has been an unforgettable experience for us and one we will look fondly at later. From the humbling and surreal experience of being in Arlington National Cemetery to visiting all the monuments, memorials, and federal buildings while serving our military and veteran communities at JBM-HH. I am blessed to have these opportunities as I look forward to future endeavors with a much deeper understanding and connection to the world I want to thrive in.

Share an example of your leadership experience within the military community:
Leadership has always come naturally to me. At 19, I managed a local swimming pool and spa store in my hometown. This set the foundation for my future leadership and managerial roles. In the military community, my leadership experience began after I arrived at JBM-HH. I participate in our steering committee meetings as a Key Spouse and Senior SFRG Advisor. I work directly with spouses and Servicemembers, providing guidance, support, and mentorship. I organize and host spouse coffees and family events that bring together our Servicemembers, spouses, and veteran communities for a fun and united purpose. I am responsible for mentoring and guiding other military and veteran spouses in helping them access resources that assist with their transitions and improve their quality of life. As a battalion ball organizer, I led a successful bake sale at one of our events that significantly boosted our fundraising efforts to help our Servicemembers attend our upcoming ball.

Describe your involvement in the military community:
My involvement in the military community stems from my desire to help servicemembers, spouses, and veterans. As a member of Team RWB Savannah, I participated in activities that brought local community members and veterans together, such as group runs and events. At Ft. Stewart, I was active in the Marne Community Spouses Club, attending luncheons and events. In my roles as Key Spouse and Senior SFRG Advisor, I provide guidance and support to families, finding it rewarding to help alleviate their concerns. I host military spouses' coffees, participate in planning events like the Warrior Battalion ball, and have volunteered for Operation Deploy Your Dress and the Army 10-Miler. I also organize bake sales to raise funds for our events and instruct fitness classes, fostering connections among service members, spouses, and retirees.

Describe how you support your community:
Support comes in many forms, especially within military communities. Experiencing a PCS can be challenging, but I've always believed in lending a hand, whether that’s sharing a cup of sugar, or offering a listening ear. I'm incredibly grateful for the kindness I’ve received from other military and veteran spouses. As a dance fitness instructor for over 13 years, I bring people together through fitness, self-care, and self-awareness. It’s a joy to see participants light up when the music starts, as dance is wonderful for physical and mental well-being. Teaching community classes allows me to share my passion for fitness, which truly uplifts my spirit. I also engage actively at community events, attending gatherings like promotions and retirement ceremonies. Witnessing the camaraderie and support within our community has deepened my understanding of my role as a military spouse and volunteer. It warms my heart to connect with others and contribute to our shared mission.

What do you advocate for? Why?
I passionately advocate for the connection of Servicemembers, military spouses, veterans, and family members with resources and programs that prepare them for readiness beyond themselves. Physical health, mental health, social support, and military life experiences are vital indicators of military readiness. My mission is to alleviate the stress linked to these challenges by promoting enhanced health and well-being. By increasing awareness and encouraging the use of available resources and programs, we can pave our path to success. Life’s challenges can be daunting, yet many individuals seek to be seen and heard, craving appreciation and the affirmation that they matter. I truly believe that when you feel good, you do good. This kind of motivation enables one to uplift and inspire those around you. I have witnessed the heartfelt gratitude of Servicemembers after receiving support, and it reinforces my commitment to this important mission.

How have you spread the message of your platform/advocacy?
I embrace a hands-on approach to my mission by actively engaging with Servicemembers, military spouses, veterans, and their families. As a Senior SFRG Advisor, I have the privilege of raising awareness about the valuable resources and programs available to them. Through one-on-one support, I share my experiences and insights within community groups and events. My personable approach ensures that the message resonates deeply and is applied in everyday life. My mission is to inspire others to be intentional and proactive in fostering connections within our communities, using both social media and more personal, heartfelt communication.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
If I am selected as Military Spouse of the Year, it will empower my commitment to helping Servicemembers, military spouses, veterans, and their families embrace their true selves. I strive to connect them with the resources that have guided me through challenges and as a new spouse. By sharing my journey positively, I hope to inspire others in our communities to become the best versions of themselves. In today’s world, it’s vital that we contribute in meaningful and sustainable ways. The title of AFI Military Spouse of the Year would grant me access to a wider range of resources and programs to further my cause. It would be an incredible honor to expand my reach beyond what I could have ever imagined.