Strengthening the Coast Guard Community: A Look Back at 2025

In 2025, the Coast Guard Foundation continued our mission of supporting Coast Guard members and their families through education, workforce and professional development, morale and wellness and emergency assistance. Across the country and at sea, our programs made a real difference in the lives of service members and their families.

Education remained at the heart of our work. Last year, we awarded $925,000 in scholarships to 255 Coast Guard children. These awards helped students pursue college degrees, technical training, and trade school programs while reducing financial stress. Children of fallen heroes received additional support through scholarships and booster grants that covered full tuition and enrichment programs, opening doors to opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach. At the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, we supported academic and athletic programs and waterfront activities. Through the generosity of a Coast Guard Foundation donor, a capable power boat was donated to support cadet maritime training and sailing programs.

Professional development for Coast Guard members and spouses was another priority. Grants trained 349 service members pursuing captains’ licenses and professional credentials, while 133 additional grants helped with off-duty education.  Funding also reached 223 spouses, supporting degrees, certifications and training , all which strengthened household stability and long-term career opportunities.

We also supported Coast Guard K9 teams by funding care for working dogs and specialized training for handlers.

Youth enrichment and morale initiatives created opportunities for fun, growth and connection. We awarded more than $416,000 in grants for summer camps, online learning tools, and enrichment activities for 921 Coast Guard children. 

Across the service, we invested $1.4 million in 247 morale and wellness projects, including holiday celebrations and Coast Guard Day events. These programs helped members stationed in remote locations feel connected and supported. Through chaplain-led programs, we reached more than 7,100 service members and families with training, resiliency workshops, and moments of reflection that strengthened relationships and community.

When disaster struck, we were there. Families affected by wildfires, floods, and an Alaskan glacial dam burst received emergency disaster relief grants. Tragedy assistance reached 21 families grieving the loss of a loved one, and ongoing support honored fallen heroes and helped members managing illness or critical injury.

Through education, morale and wellness support, and emergency assistance, we spent 2025 helping families be more resilient and build true community, wherever their service took them.

Looking ahead to 2026, we plan to expand and deepen our support, reaching more service members and families, investing in education, morale, and emergency support, and continuing to provide meaningful programs for those who serve.

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At top, three of our 2025 program beneficiaries:  Liam Allard, CGF scholarship recipient and college graduate; Kinzinia Hamm, spouse education grant recipient; and a youth enrichment program grant recipient.