December Newsletter

12/10/2025

A NOTE FROM OUR CEO:

As we wrap up the year, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to every member of the EMS US community. Your dedication to mentorship, your commitment to growth, and your willingness to serve one another embody the values that make this organization exceptional.

This season reminds us of the impact we can have when we support those transitioning into their next chapter. Thank you for showing up with purpose, generosity, and heart.

Wishing you and your families a joyful holiday season and a strong start to the new year.

With gratitude,

Corey M. Hayes
CEO & Founder

MENTOR SPOTLIGHT:

This month, we’re proud to highlight Meridee, whose impact on EMS US reaches more than her mentorship. As both a dedicated mentor and a valued board member, Meridee consistently brings wisdom, warmth, and commitment to our mission. She leads with compassion, listens with intention, and shows every service member what it looks like to be both strong and supportive.

Her leadership continues to shape the direction of EMS US, and her mentorship changes lives. We’re grateful to have her with EMS US and lifting up the soldiers and spouses we serve.

Thank you, Meridee, for everything you pour into this work. You embody what EMS US stands for.

MERIDEE RILEN | Since January 2022
Founder & CEO of Affinity Psychological Services

Why I want to be involved:
As a psychologist and an entrepreneur, I recognize and celebrate that the most significant personal growth comes in times of transition. A transition can (if we let it) give us incredible clarity about who we are, what we need, where we're going, and how we want to get there. It's a gift to be allowed to be a part of someone's change process, and EMS-US allows me to do that in a different way than in my clinical work.

Learn more about our mentors >>

Become an EMS Mentor >>

UPCOMING EVENTS:

December 16, 2025 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting
Location will be sent upon invitation.

January 20, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting
Location will be sent upon invitation.

February 17, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting
Location will be sent upon invitation.

March 17, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting
Location will be sent upon invitation.

All 2026 Mentor Meetings have been added to the website. Click the button below to view the full schedule.

View Meeting Schedule & RSVP >>

TESTIMONIALS FROM SERVICE MEMBERS:

"Just a quick note to say thank you for the time invested this afternoon. I found the entire experience to be very worthwhile and gratifying. I’m looking forward to our working together and expect this to lead to some real progress and professional growth."

"I have an INCREDIBLE mentor! He has already done 2 mock interviews with me on a last minute basis and has introduced me to almost a dozen people in his network."