When people think about supporting veterans, they often focus on the veteran.
But behind every service member is a network of people who love and care for them. Spouses, parents, siblings, children, friends, and neighbors are all part of a valuable support system.
Though each warrior’s journey and support system is unique, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) recognizes that these individuals often need support, too.
"At Wounded Warrior Project, we know the importance of having support from family members and other loved ones, so we have programs and resources geared just for them,” says Jill Matta, director of Warrior Experience at WWP®.
Understanding what these WWP resources look like can raise a range of questions. From who is eligible to what being registered actually means, below are answers to a few common misconceptions.
Who Can Register as a Family Support Member with WWP?
Anyone age 18 or older who provides meaningful support to a veteran or service member can qualify as a WWP family support member.
“If you’re someone who a warrior trusts and relies on, you may be eligible to register with Wounded Warrior Project as a family support member,” says Jill. “The focus is not on a person's relationship title but on the role they play in supporting the veteran.”
Registered WWP support members may include spouses, parents, siblings, adult children, independent caregivers, friends, neighbors, and fellow veterans. Currently, WWP has more than 63,700 family support members registered.
How Many Family Support Members Can Register?
Each warrior can have up to three people registered as family support members with WWP.
Veterans often rely on more than one person for support. In fact, many WWP warriors have multiple people in their lives, each helping in different ways, Jill says.
One person, for instance, may help navigate medical appointments and paperwork. Another may encourage or assist with rides to events. Someone else may simply be the trusted friend who checks in regularly. All can be eligible to register as family support members.
Can I Register if I’m Not a Caregiver?
One of the most common misconceptions is that you have to identify as a caregiver to register as a family support member. In reality, you don’t need to have an official caregiver role to access support through WWP.
WWP recognizes that family support members can benefit from connection, information, and resources, too.
"Caregivers are a very important part of the community — and we offer dedicated resources for caregivers,” Jill says. "But you don't need to have an official caregiver designation to be able to access Wounded Warrior Project services.”
Why Connect with WWP as a Family Support Member?
Connecting with WWP as a family support member helps you better support your loved one while also giving you access to resources for yourself.
Many loved ones first connect with WWP while searching for resources for the service member or veteran in their life. Being registered as a family support member can make it easier to understand how to help.
“Often, loved ones are among the first people warriors turn to when they need information, encouragement, or help finding resources," Jill says. "Being connected to Wounded Warrior Project can help family support members better understand what's available and where to start for their loved one.”
Additionally, WWP offers specific resources designed to help family support members feel connected.
“Supporting someone else can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging at times, so there are opportunities specifically designed for family members to connect with one another," Jill says.
"Sometimes having a safe space to ask questions, share experiences, and build relationships with peers can be incredibly valuable for everyone.”
What Resources Are Available to Family Support Members?
WWP offers a range of opportunities, including dedicated peer connection programs, mental health and emotional support, benefits and career support, and community resources. Many services are available whether or not the veteran is participating in WWP programs.
If a family member is also serving in an official caregiver capacity, WWP can provide guidance and resources, including details around WWP’s programs and the VA’s Caregiver Support Program.
Family support members can:
- Connect with the WWP Resource Center for personalized guidance.
- Connect with peers who understand their experiences.
- Get 24/7 access to the MyWWP portal to connect and to learn about WWP programs.
- Gain access to online educational content and tools.
How to Get Connected to WWP?
Many people assume that becoming connected with WWP is a lengthy or complicated process.
Registration is simple and can be completed online, by chat, or by phone.
A veteran or service member does not have to be registered with WWP before a family member begins the process, although service verification is required. Dedicated team members from WWP’s Resource Center can help answer questions and explain the steps involved.
What Happens After I Register as a WWP Family Member?
"A lot of people come to us knowing they need support, but they may not know exactly what they're looking for yet," Jill says. "That's OK. Our team can help them understand what's available, answer questions, and connect them with resources that fit their situation."
Once registered, family members can connect with the WWP Resource Center to get program recommendations, begin exploring the MyWWP portal to find events and activities near them, and engage with resources based on their interests and needs.
"Everyone's journey is different," Jill adds. “Wounded Warrior Project is here to help family support members engage in ways that make sense for them.”
Strengthening the Support System
It’s rare for veterans and service members to navigate life alone. Having a small but mighty group of people in their corner helps them stay connected and engaged.
"When family support members are informed, connected, and supported themselves, it strengthens the entire network around the warrior," Jill says. "That can make a meaningful difference for everyone involved."
Family Support in Real Life
Click below to hear from various family support members about their experiences and the value of WWP.
Discover programs and resources for family members.
Additional FAQs about Family Support Members
Below are some other common questions about becoming a family support member with WWP
Yes. Family support members can include blood relatives or those related by marriage, as well as other loved ones, such as friends, neighbors, and battle buddies. Anyone over 18 who provides meaningful support to a veteran or service member can be considered.
No. A family member or supporter can begin the registration process independently, although service verification is required.
Each warrior can have up to three people registered as family support members with WWP.
No. While some activities include both warriors and their supporters, WWP also offers opportunities designed specifically for family support members.
In many cases, warriors must initiate contact and provide consent before engaging in programs and services. The WWP Resource Center can help explain the process and answer questions about available options.
Many people connect with WWP before they know exactly what resources may be helpful. The WWP Resource Center can answer questions, explain available programs, and help family support members identify opportunities that fit their needs or those of their loved ones.