Kate Youngs enlisted in 1998, hoping to gain professional experience and a sense of direction.
“I wasn’t ready for college and not sure of my path,” she said.
Youngs ended up serving five years in the Army. Today, she and her husband, Gary, have two children, Sawyer and Quinnley. As quartermaster and adjutant of VFW Post 3794 in Greenville, Michigan, Youngs remains closely connected to her military community.
“I really love being involved with veterans,” she said. “Whether that’s through community service projects, listening to and sharing stories, or even my work as a realtor where I help fellow veterans buy or sell homes, it’s all about supporting one another.”
In addition to her roles with Post 3794, Youngs has also served as chaplain and on the Executive Board for her local American Legion Post and was recently appointed to the State Honor Guard for VFW.
“Through my work with the VFW and American Legion, I get to give back in so many ways,” she said. “What’s really special is that these organizations are family-friendly, so my kids get to join in, learn and experience a sense of service firsthand.”
Youngs hopes that by Still Serving in so many ways, including with her family by her side, her actions make a lasting impression on Sawyer and Quinnley.
“I really hope my kids see the value of community through my involvement and that they feel that sense of belonging that comes from being part of something bigger than yourself,” she said.
“I want them to understand that community isn’t just about people your own age or background. It’s a mix of folks coming together with shared values and purpose. Because when people support each other, amazing things can happen.
“I hope my kids carry that with them and understand that giving back and showing up for others truly matters.”
To learn more about the Still Serving campaign, or to tell your own story, visit vfw.org/StillServing.