More Than A Spouse: Turning Volunteerism into a Powerhouse of Support
Army spouse Karly Gadell isn’t just a volunteer—she’s redefining what it means to serve military families. Rather than viewing volunteer roles as side commitments, she has transformed them into platforms for lasting change, building strong support systems, fostering connections, and advocating for military families. Having led Spouses’ Clubs at three different installations, Karly’s service goes beyond personal sacrifice—it’s about leadership, impact, and creating a thriving military community.
Building Community, One Duty Station at a Time
Throughout her military journey, Karly has embraced the challenges of military life by dedicating herself to selfless service.
“My first year as a spouse, I was teaching at a school full of military kids. These students didn’t have half the opportunities I had in high school—especially the girls. So, I started two high school sports programs at the junior high and high school level,” Karly shared. “What followed was volunteer roles with Honor Flight, Wreaths Across America, and Santa’s Workshop.”
Over the past 17 years, Karly has found her purpose in Spouses’ Clubs, working to create lasting experiences for military spouses.
“Volunteer work doesn’t come with a paycheck, but it mirrors the responsibilities of a nonprofit job. That’s why I’m passionate about turning volunteer experience—especially within military spouses’ clubs—into meaningful resume builders,” she explained. “Creating positions and titles that better reflect their skills, so it translates into job applications, is a passion of mine.”
Her leadership has strengthened military spouses’ clubs and bridged the gap between military families and local civilian communities. At her current installation, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, Karly has facilitated partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce, fostering valuable relationships that benefit military families and the surrounding community.
Being A Voice Will Always Matter
Being a voice for all military families means advocating for those who often go unheard. With each move, Karly gained a deeper understanding of military culture and the unique challenges service members and their families face. Her commitment to driving positive change at every duty station led to her recognition as the 2023 Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year for Fort Irwin. Right away, Karly took that achievement and put it back into her work to make meaningful changes for families.
“That one award itself has opened doors to a whole other community of military spouses to network with.” Karly shared. “Through collaboration, I’ve been invited to speaking engagements where I represent military spouses and advocate for our needs and share invaluable resources.”
Her leadership has always been about ensuring every family has access to support, resources, and opportunities to thrive.
“Thriving where you are planted may seem cliché,’ but these small acts of change have left a positive impact on each community I have had the privilege of being a part of.” Karly said. “Being able to touch the lives of so many people goes hand in hand with being a military spouse.”
Together, We’re Stronger®
Through years of service in Spouses’ Clubs and community programs, Karly has seen firsthand the challenges military families face—whether it’s limited opportunities for military children, spouses struggling to find meaningful careers, or the need for stronger connections between military and civilian communities.
“This journey has given me countless opportunities to help others and create lasting change—and I’m just getting started!’ Karly stated with conviction.
Karly’s journey proves that military spouses are so much more than just spouses or volunteers—they are leaders, changemakers, and advocates. She has used every relocation as an opportunity to serve, build, and uplift those around her—and at NMFA, we celebrate that.
Share your ‘More Than A Spouse’ story with us. We want to hear it!
By: Angela Sablan Tenorio, Content Manager
