Beyond The Role: A Community for Military Spouses

Register For Informational Session

Sept 18th (6-7pm)

Join Our Community

Stay connected with upcoming events, updates, and opportunities designed just for military spouses and partners.

What is "Beyond The Role"?

Beyond the Role is a community created for military spouses at every stage of the journey. Whether your spouse is currently serving, has served in the past, or your path looks different now as a widow or divorced spouse, you are welcome here.

This is a space where you will feel seen, supported, and understood while connecting with others who “get it”. Through monthly gatherings, wellness-focused sessions, and service opportunities, our goal is simple: to pour back into the ones who so often pour out.

Every time you show up, we want you to walk away reminded that your well-being, your voice, and your story matter too.

Our Mission :

We believe military spouses deserve supportive spaces where they can connect with others who understand the ups and downs of this life, care for themselves without guilt, and rediscover what makes them feel whole.

Our mission is to create those spaces. Through honest conversations, meaningful gatherings, and opportunities to serve together, we remind one another that being a military spouse is only part of who you are. Beyond that role, you matter here.

Click on the above flyer to enlarge

What To Expect:

Connect :

With others who understand the military spouse journey.

Grow :

Through structured sessions and supportive resources.

Give Back :

Opportunities to support others and the community.

Belong :

A safe, welcoming space that reminds you — You Matter Here.

The Beyond The Role Team:

Dina King

Program Director

As our Founder, Dina brings over 25 years of lived experience as a military spouse in leading Beyond the Role. She oversees the vision of the group, ensuring each gathering and partnership reflects our mission of support while passionately equipping spouses with tools for resilience, wellness, and connection, Dina keeps the big picture in focus while also caring deeply about the individual experiences of each member.

Christalyn Howard

Facilitator

Christalyn combines her background as a licensed counselor with her passion for helping women use their voice to prioritize their wellness. Her life is deeply connected to the military through family members who have served, as well as close friends and clients who live the military spouse journey every day.

As our Facilitator, she helps design meaningful gatherings, guide honest conversations, and create spaces where members feel safe to share. Christalyn is committed to making sure no one walks away feeling unseen or alone.

Lisa Strahammer

Volunteer Coordinator

Lisa is both a U.S. Veteran and a proud military spouse, which gives her a unique perspective on service and community. She understands the sacrifices and resilience of military life, and that experience guides how she serves others.

As our Volunteer Coordinator, Lisa creates meaningful opportunities for military spouses to give back in ways that are flexible and life-giving. She ensures that volunteering with Beyond the Role isn’t just about helping others, it’s also about feeling valued, connected, and cared for within our community

Patty Wesley

Community Care Coordinator

Patty is a proud Military Spouse and Military Mom, with all of her sons currently serving. She understands the sacrifices, strength, and resilience it takes to support loved ones in uniform.

As our Community Care Coordinator, Patty is dedicated to helping spouses feel less isolated and more supported by checking in with participants, encouraging ongoing involvement, and celebrating milestones along the way. Her focus is ensuring members don’t just attend once, but feel connected enough to keep showing up and growing with our community.

FAQs:

Who can join?

Beyond the Role is for military spouses at every stage of their journey. Whether your spouse is currently serving, has served in the past, or your journey looks different now as a widow or divorced spouse, you are welcome here.

Is this therapy?

No. Beyond the Role is not therapy or a clinical counseling group. It is a peer-based community designed to be supportive and therapeutic through connection and encouragement. If professional counseling is needed, we will connect participants with trusted resources.

What happens if I miss a meeting?

Life happens! While consistency helps you get the most from the group, there is no penalty if you miss a meeting. We want this community to fit into your life, not add extra pressure. You are welcome to join us when you can.

How does this fit with Range for Hope’s mission?

Beyond the Role aligns with Range for Hope’s Home & Health Initiative by promoting whole-family wellness, empowerment, and connection. We focus on the well-being of military spouses as individuals, creating ripple effects that strengthen the entire military family.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. There are no membership fees. Instead, we just ask for a willingness to give back, whether that’s volunteering at an event, encouraging another spouse, or contributing your unique skills and strengths.

What can I expect at a meeting?

Expect a welcoming space to connect, encouragement from peers who understand, and light activities that support your well-being in practical and holistic ways. You’ll also find opportunities to give back and strengthen the community. Most of all, you can expect to leave reminded that You Matter Here.

Do I have to share personal details?

No. You’re welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable. Listening and being present is just as valuable as speaking