McChord Heritage Room Creates a Place for Spouses to Connect and Grow

Affiliation: Joint

Location: Joint Base Lewis-McChord | McChord Field, WA

Partners: 62d Airlift Wing; Team McChord military spouses; installation leadership; community supporters and donors

What They Did: Created a dedicated spouse space where military spouses can meet, network, pursue professional development, and work toward educational goals. The room also preserves military spouse history and honors the legacy of Joan Brown, a longtime spouse advocate in the McChord community.

Key Results: Opened in 2024, the room was built through spouse efforts and community collaboration and also honors the legacy of longtime military spouse advocate Joan Brown.

Replication Takeaway: Identify an installation space, organize spouse leaders and command sponsors, furnish it through community support and donations, and combine coworking, networking, professional development, education, and recognition of military spouse service.