"One kind act can spark a huge ripple of love!"

When Jessica Manfre befriended two other military wives at an awards ceremony, they clicked instantly, as if it were meant to be. Less than a year later, the three women would come to realize their friendship was indeed fated when their shared desire to spread kindness changed countless lives all around the world!

- Diane Nichols 

Coast Guard wife Jessica Manfre filled with pride when she was chosen to receive the 2019 Armed Forces Insurance Coast Guard Spouse of the Year award. A busy therapist, social worker and mother of two, Jessica worked tirelessly to provide support to military families. She knew the hardships—the multiple moves, isolation and loneliness spouses endured— and was always looking for ways to bring military families and the community closer.

Little did she know that award would not only help her achieve her goal but would unite hearts—military and civilian—across the country and beyond.

Making hearts smile

At the awards ceremony, Jessica met two other military wives who were being honored in their respective branches: Maria Reed as an Army spouse and Samantha Gomolka, whose husband serves in the National Guard. Their connection was effortless and despite living in different corners of the country, once home, the three spoke every day, cementing their bond and sharing their like dream of making a difference for military families and their communities at large.

That July, Jessica and Maria were thrilled to have the opportunity to take part in a home makeover for a Coast Guard member whose wife had terminal cancer. Once done, Jessica proudly shared the finished product with Giving Tuesday, a global movement that rallies communities to give back the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Impressed, the group asked if she’d be willing to start a military Giving Tuesday campaign.

“I’m in!” Maria and Samantha both exclaimed when Jessica shared the proposition with them.