By: Rachel Rountree
The Flagship Program, Command Purpose’s foundational programming, was developed out of founders Errin and Cadie’s desire to scale the relationship they found as a Veteran and Ally supporting each other through life’s transitions. Over the last 2 years, the program has supported Veteran women and allies as they’ve navigated significant life transitions and found alignment to their core values. Now, our inaugural cohort enters their final week in the program, we invite you to read about one member’s journey in the program. Dana Long, an Air Force Veteran, graciously shared her experience & insight.
Dana, please tell us a little about your background and how you found the Command Purpose Foundation?
I grew up in a military family, my father was in the Army, and I joined the Air Force when I was 17. When I retired from the Air Force I went into the Civil Service, and as I was preparing to retire a second time, I started looking for organizations to get involved with that aligned with my values. Even though I’m not huge on social media, I heard about Command Purpose through another meetup, & after seeing what the foundation is about I decided to join the community!
What drew you to apply to the program?
I was drawn to the focus on female veterans, and I also wanted an opportunity to give back. I listened to Errin and Cadie talk about the program, & the more I heard from them the more I wanted to be a part of this sisterhood. At first I wasn’t sure about applying, because the type of life transition I’m going through now is a little different than the other ladies–but, it has definitely been worth it!
How did you feel after Workshop I? What did you learn about yourself and your values?
Workshop I definitely helped me take a more introspective approach to thinking about myself and how I can help others. Even though I feel like I’m in a good space, the workshop provided new perspectives that I hadn’t considered before and opened my mind to new possibilities .
Did anything surprise you about your experience with Workshop I?
While it affirmed that I’m in a good place right now, it also reminded me that I need to continue to take accountability for how I show up–that’s been a theme that’s resonated throughout the process for me. One of the exercises really illuminated this for me, as we had to both give and receive feedback. It reminded me that people are always watching how you live out your values.
After completing Workshop II, what were your biggest takeaways?
Through the inner mentor exercise, I was able to identify two things that I’m carrying forward. One, self-discipline and having faith in myself will be key in allowing me to do the things that I want to accomplish in life. Two, prioritizing my health is something that I need to focus on. I’ve already started to implement that now in my daily life, through increasing my activity level, getting outside, and taking my vitamins!
What are you most looking forward to in Workshop III?
I’m definitely looking forward to meeting the ladies in person, and to finishing out the final exercises. I’m grateful for Command Purpose and the mission of this organization. Whenever I start to feel like I’m out of place, Command Purpose helps to pull me back in. I’m also grateful for the opportunity to learn from and communicate with women who may have different life stories than me, but who share similar values.
Dana, thank you so much for being such an incredible member of our community! We appreciate you & all that you brought to this experience.
Are you currently considering your next life move? Have you recently experienced a major transition? Or, are you seeking deeper connection and alignment to your own values and purpose? We’d love for you to join us for our next program.
Learn More Here