In this special segment of Minnesota Military Radio, host Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Wortham welcomes the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon (BTYR) outreach team for a comprehensive 2025 year-in-review. The discussion covers the program’s statewide impact, key initiatives, the power of community and corporate volunteers, distinctions from the federal Yellow Ribbon program, and exciting goals for 2026.Guests:
- Stephanie Hurt – Community Outreach Coordinator
- Taunja Moe Forbes – Community Outreach Coordinator
- Taylor Kristoffe-Jones – Corporate Outreach Coordinator
Key Highlights from 2025:
- Helped approximately 76,000 service members, veterans, and families across Minnesota — equivalent to filling U.S. Bank Stadium!
- Statewide initiatives including Operation Kinship (themed care packages for military families left behind during deployments) and Hero Meals (Thanksgiving/Christmas support, especially vital during challenging times).
- Reboot success since 2022: Unified community and corporate sides, fostering stronger partnerships and resource sharing.
- No government funding/red tape — support comes from private donations, volunteers, and companies, enabling quick, flexible aid (e.g., coffee and muffins at Camp Ripley polar plunges, emergency assistance, job connections).
- New corporate partners joined, including Walser Automotive Group (first automotive group in the program, offering military discounts and potential repair support).
- Emphasis on volunteers as the “heartbeat” — patriots helping patriots, with opportunities for all ages and commitment levels.
Looking Ahead to 2026:
- Expanding to over 100 Beyond the Yellow Ribbon companies, including all Minnesota state colleges and universities.
- Growing volunteer numbers and statewide momentum through more combined initiatives.
- Continued focus on supporting all branches, families, and filling gaps for those in need — from rural wood delivery to metro job placement.
