MSgt Rosmell MejiaEscobar, USMC, first from left and Major Araceli Macias can be seen second from right - with their families.
(Tampa, FL - May 1, 2025) For Air Force Major Araceli Macias, Operation Strong Families (OSF) has been beyond amazing! Between the couples-only sessions and group family time, she found value in every part of the free 10-week program offered by the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA.
Launched in November and funded by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, OSF is designed to support active-duty military and veteran families with children ages 7 to 12. The next session begins Monday, May 5, and includes a YMCA membership for the duration of the program.
“I’ve been in the Air Force for 15 years, and this program gave us tools to navigate military life, especially for our children,” said Aracelie, who has been married 14 years and has three children.
“It helped us become better parents by listening to our children’s thoughts on life in the military.”
Each session includes biweekly one-hour meetings with small-group workouts for adults, which will now expand to include family workouts and healthy eating guidance. Children participate in Operation Hero, a nationally recognized program created by the Armed Services YMCA to boost self-esteem and help them manage the unique challenges of military life.
Aracelie especially appreciated the couples’ sessions.
“Hearing my husband’s perspective helped our relationship. Exercising together and realizing we’re not alone as a military family gave us strength,” she said.
Marine Master Sergeant Rosmell MejiaEscobar, who has served nearly 20 years and is a father of four, also praised the program.
“My wife now understands what I do and the structure that comes with being a Marine,” he said.
“OSF gave us a community of people who get it. My kids and my wife are happier, and so am I.”
Both families completed the program at the Spurlino Family YMCA and are returning for the new session. In addition to Spurlino, OSF is offered at the South Tampa and North Brandon Family YMCAs with varying days/times.
“I am excited to see this program grow and its impact on these families. We want to be the place for military families to connect, feel supported and build their community,” noted Nicole Kettermann, Tampa Y’s Director of Youth Health and Wellness, who oversees OSF.
To register or for more information, visit our website or email: military.families@tampaymca.org.
For media queries, please contact:
Kiran Malik-Khan
Senior Communications Director
Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA
Kiran.malik-khan@tampaymca.org