The “Year of the CYP Hero” campaign is a dedicated initiative aimed at recognizing the invaluable contributions of Child and Youth Programs (CYP) and CYP professionals throughout the remainder of the 2024 calendar year. CYP professionals include more than 10,000 employees, contractors, volunteers, and family child care providers serving over 40,000 children, youth, and families in Department of the Air Force Child Development Centers, School Age Care, Family Child Care, Youth and Teen, and School Liaison programs. These professionals are essential to the military family support system, allowing Airmen and Guardians to focus on their mission knowing their loved ones are in capable hands.
CYP professionals are critical to mission readiness, as they care for the dependents of service members while they accomplish the mission. These professionals play a vital role in supporting the Space Force mission, enabling Guardians to focus on their 24/7 operations with peace of mind knowing their family members are well cared for. Throughout the year, there will be various recognition efforts to celebrate exceptional CYP professionals, including Inspector Accolades, Monthly and Quarterly Heroes recognition, Parent’s Choice Awards, and professional development opportunities. The DAF CYP Hero of the Quarter will be recognized based on the monthly hero with the most “likes” on Facebook.
To support CYP professionals and military families, the DAF has implemented initiatives to enhance the CYP experience. Employee benefits include financial incentives such as a 100% childcare fee discount for the first child enrolled in Child Development Programs and a 25% discount for each additional child. In 2023, childcare fees were reduced to ease the burden on lower-income families, and the fiscal year 2025 budget proposal includes $40 million for the construction of a new Child Development Center at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, expanding vital CYP services for Air Force families. These initiatives aim to make CYP services more affordable and accessible to military families.
Overall, the “Year of the CYP Hero” campaign seeks to honor and recognize the exceptional service of CYP professionals who are essential to mission success and the well-being of military families. Through various recognition efforts and initiatives to enhance the CYP experience, the DAF is committed to supporting and celebrating these dedicated professionals who play a crucial role in caring for the dependents of service members. The campaign aims to boost morale, celebrate excellence, and inspire continued dedication from CYP professionals throughout the year.
