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Leslie Janaros, Marian Wilcox and Sharene Brown

Advocacy in Action

As Five & Thrive proudly celebrates its 50th SITREP, we’re taking a moment to reflect—and to shine a light on the remarkable visionaries who started it all: our co-founders, Leslie Janaros and Marian Wilcox.

Born from their deep well of experience as military spouses, Leslie and Marian set out on a journey rooted in empathy, humility, and purpose. They knew firsthand the challenges that military families face—the juggling of transitions, the navigating of new communities, and the quiet strength required to thrive in a life of service. They immersed themselves in understanding the resources available and acknowledged the gaps that too often left families struggling in silence.

Then, they took action.

Teaming up with Sharene Brown, spouse of the 21st Chief of Staff of the Air Force, they launched Five & Thrive—a movement built on connection, humility, and impact. In the nearly five years since that first spark, they have started a movement, breaking new ground and creating meaningful change for military families everywhere.

They built not just a team—but a mission.

Together, we defined our five lines of effort:

  • Advocating for Quality-of-Life Improvements
  • Fostering Community Partnerships
  • Consolidating Quality-of-Life Resources in One Convenient Location
  • Educating Military Families, Leaders, and Community Partners on Existing Efforts and Best Practices
  • Promoting the Exceptional Value of the Military-Connected Spouse

These pillars have guided our work and helped turn insight into action—addressing the very gaps that Leslie and Marian first identified. And while there is still work to be done, we move forward with confidence, because we’ve learned from the best.

Leslie and Marian taught us that our own experiences matter—that they are a source of strength, insight, and leadership. They reminded us that change is possible when we come together and lift each other up.

But perhaps their most powerful lesson is this: we cannot do this alone.

Five & Thrive may have started with a spark, but it’s sustained by the dedication of people like you—those who show up every day for themselves, their families, and their communities. Your efforts make this mission real.

To Leslie, Marian, and Sharene: thank you for teaching us to believe in ourselves, in each other, and in the power of thriving—together.

And to everyone on this journey with us: thank you.

“Let’s keep going.”