Claudia Cunningham

Share your military spouse story:
My military spouse journey began in 2017 when I married my Coastie, who had just graduated from boot camp. Over the past seven years, we've traveled to different locations, each one bringing new experiences, challenges, and opportunities. Along the way, we've grown together as a family, and now, we have a 3-year-old son and a baby girl on the way, due very soon. As a stay-at-home mom and entrepreneur, I’ve learned to turn my hobbies into sources of income, creating and selling items whenever I can. I’ve also been working on my bachelor’s degree in human services with a concentration in family and children, with the goal of becoming a counselor. The desire to help others with their mental health stems from a personal experience—losing my dad to mental illness in 2014. That loss ignited a passion in me to support others going through similar struggles. We've been stationed at three locations so far, and I can honestly say that I’ve finally found a community that truly supports each other. Being part of the Spouses Club has given me the chance to connect with other spouses and be there for them when they need support. I know how tough it can be to move so often, and I want to be a steady presence for others, helping them feel welcomed and valued wherever we go. I also advocate for mental health because it’s essential for the well-being of the whole family. When spouses feel supported and resilient, they can better handle military life, benefiting their Coast Guard partner and children. Strong families make for strong communities, and I’m passionate about fostering that balance. As we prepare for our next PCS, I’m excited to continue this adventure, knowing that I will have opportunities to support and help as many people as I can along the way. Whether through my work with the Spouses Club, my future career as a counselor, or simply by being a friend, I hope to make a positive impact on every community we join.

Share an example of your leadership experience within the military community:
One example of my leadership within the military community is my role as a board member of the Coast Guard Spouses Club. A standout moment was leading the planning and execution of a New York-themed welcome reception for spouses transitioning to Sector New York. I worked with the board to coordinate logistics, create a welcoming atmosphere, and ensure the event was inclusive for all. This project involved managing RSVPs, organizing volunteers, and curating a theme that celebrated local culture while fostering connection. By working collaboratively, we created an event that brought new and seasoned spouses together, helping them feel a sense of belonging. Beyond event planning, I lead by mentoring new members, encouraging volunteerism, and contributing to the club's growth. I strive to empower the military community by fostering collaboration and creating opportunities for others to shine, reflecting the leadership qualities needed for the AFI MSOY role.

Describe your involvement in the military community:
As a board member of the Coast Guard Spouses Club, I work to create an environment where spouses feel welcomed and supported. I connect with new spouses, sharing information about our club and encouraging them to get involved. Alongside my fellow board members, I help plan events that bring military spouses together, such as themed receptions, Friendsgiving dinners, and mixers. Beyond the Spouses Club, I engage in initiatives that support the broader Coast Guard community, including volunteering at events like distributing HelloFresh to our families. These efforts help build strong connections, provide valuable resources, and foster a sense of unity. My involvement enables me to positively impact those around me while strengthening the support network for military families.

Describe how you support your community:
I support my community by creating opportunities for connection, fostering inclusivity, and help provide meaningful resources to Coast Guard families. As a board member, I help plan events like themed receptions, holiday celebrations, and mixers that strengthen bonds and offer a space for members to feel seen and supported. I also engage with new spouses who have recently moved, introducing them to our club, sharing resources, and encouraging participation in activities. By helping them feel welcome, I ease their transition and build a sense of belonging. Additionally, I actively contribute to initiatives that support the wider Coast Guard community, including volunteering, organizing projects, and supporting military families. Through these efforts, I aim to foster a culture of care and collaboration, where everyone feels valued, empowered, and part of something bigger.

What do you advocate for? Why?
I advocate for mental health, especially within the military spouse community, because it is essential for overall well-being and resilience. Military spouses face unique challenges, from relocations and separations to adapting to new environments. These stresses can take a toll, making it crucial to prioritize support systems. This advocacy drives my passion. By reaching out to new Coast Guard spouses and introducing them to our community, I aim to foster connection and belonging. A welcoming community is key to positive mental health. I also help plan events within the Coast Guard Spouses Club to promote mutual support, knowing these moments alleviate stress and improve emotional well-being. Mental health advocacy is important to me because I’ve witnessed the strength and challenges military spouses face. I want them to know they are not alone and that resources and understanding are available. By raising awareness, I hope to empower spouses to prioritize their well-being.

How have you spread the message of your platform/advocacy?
I spread the message of my mental health advocacy within the military spouse community by actively reaching out to as many spouses as I can. I believe in the power of personal interaction—whether offering a listening ear or lending a helping hand, I ensure every spouse feels seen and supported. In addition to one-on-one connections, I use my role within the Coast Guard Spouses Club to amplify this message. By engaging with new spouses, introducing them to our community, and helping them feel welcomed, I build a network that fosters mental well-being. I also integrate advocacy into everyday conversations, whether checking in with fellow spouses or simply being present. These small gestures contribute to creating a culture of support and openness, helping reduce stigma and empowering spouses to seek help when needed.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
If awarded the AFI Military Spouse of the Year® title, my goal is to elevate mental health awareness within the military spouse community. I hope to advocate for stronger support systems, resources, and programs that prioritize spouses' well-being. By leveraging this platform, I aim to raise awareness of the unique challenges spouses face, especially around mental health, and encourage open conversations that reduce stigma and promote positive coping strategies. Additionally, I want to foster a sense of connection and community among military spouses. By strengthening our bonds, we can empower each other to thrive. I also hope to inspire others to engage in advocacy and service, creating positive change within our community. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure every military spouse feels seen, heard, and supported. Through mental health advocacy and community-building, I hope to contribute to a more resilient and united military spouse community.