Full interview: Chris Cox explains how community partners like Jester Park Equestrian Center rally around Guard families to keep kids grounded during deployment.
Stories That Stick With Guard Youth
Real stories from Iowa National Guard children, teens, and caregivers who found connection and resilience through Iowa CYP.
Community spotlight
News story: Community lifts families during deployment
Program Director Chris Cox sat down with local news to share how partners step in when Guard families face deployments. The feature highlights a free horse camp hosted by Jester Park Equestrian Center that gave military youth room to breathe, laugh, and stay connected while a parent was away.
- Why it mattered: Volunteers, donors, and Jester Park covered every cost so Guard kids could simply show up.
- What families said: Time with the horses eased anxiety and sparked conversations about deployment in a safe setting.
- How to use it: Share this clip with civic groups and potential sponsors who want real examples of community impact.
Parent perspective
Finding friendship after a cross-country move
When one Guard family relocated from Texas to Iowa, their daughter wondered who would understand what military life felt like. In this short clip, her mom shares how a familiar face from an Iowa CYP program turned into instant camaraderie—and how that connection steadied their whole household.
- Shared experience: A fellow military youth spotted her at camp and reminded her she wasn’t starting over alone.
- Ripple effect: Confidence followed her home, making the new duty station feel less overwhelming.
- Takeaway: CYP friendships can outlast moves and mobilizations, giving kids anchors no matter the zip code.
Use this testimony when talking with school counselors, partner organizations, or potential sponsors who want to understand the on-the-ground impact of CYP relationships.
Event stories
Moments that stay with us
Highlights from camps and gatherings where Iowa CYP youth discover their strengths. Tap into these stories when you need a real example of resilience in action.
Festival spotlight
Camp Dodge came alive with pumpkins, partners, and Guard family connection.
Family festival
Posted October 29, 2025
Fall Family Festival Strengthens Guard Family Connections
“Pumpkin painting, therapy animals, and teen leaders turned Camp Dodge into a readiness recharge for Guard families.”
State Teen Panel members, 113 volunteers, and community partners welcomed 491 attendees for a day of connection, resilience, and readiness.
Camp highlight
Wednesday win with a mentor who kept cheering.
Camper breakthrough
Chain of Confidence
“He started the week wanting to go home. By Wednesday, he was leading with confidence — and a chain that told the story of not giving up.”
A small challenge and a patient mentor turned homesickness into pride—share this when you need a concrete camp win.
Legacy rock
A painted rock that captured a brand-new friendship.
Friendship forged
Rock-Solid Bond
“Two campers met as strangers and left as best friends — a reminder that some of the strongest bonds begin at camp.”
Their Legacy Rock proved how one week can spark a friendship that stays strong long after camp ends.
Voices you can trust
Why consistent support matters statewide
Parents, teens, youth, and caregivers keep us honest. These quotes highlight what sticks with them long after an event or program ends.