About us
Our history
In the early days of naval life, emergencies left families with few places to turn. A small group of naval officers and spouses stepped in, fueled by generosity and belief in service. Funds raised at the 1903 Army-Navy football game—along with a bit of "passing the hat"—made it possible to help those who needed it most. In 1904, we were officially founded as a non-profit, offering hope and a promise to those who serve.
For over a century, through world wars, deployments, and generations of change, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society has remained a constant, answering the call with compassion. Today, with more than 200 offices worldwide and thousands of dedicated volunteers, we continue to be a trusted partner for tens of thousands of active duty and retired Sailors, Marines and their families.
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is the official charity of the Navy and Marine Corps
Our mission: To build financial stability and well-being for Sailors, Marines and their families.
Our vision: To be the most trusted resource to meet the emerging needs of our global community of Sailors and Marines.
Our guiding principles are:
- Partnership: We work in partnership with the Navy and Marine Corps to deliver our mission
- Resiliency: We foster client resiliency through assistance and education
- Dignity: We preserve the dignity of our clients by providing confidential and respectful services
- Stewardship: We responsibly steward the funds entrusted to us
- Recognition: We recognize and celebrate our incredible volunteer workforce
Meet the team
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society officers are retired military members and military spouses who bring a vast amount of experience—and hands-on knowledge and understanding—of military life. But what truly sets our officers apart is the compassionate way we treat every client.
Board members and advisors
Members of the Board of Directors include senior Navy and Marine Corps leaders who help guide us to excel in delivering compassionate, confidential service to active duty and retired Sailors, Marines and their families. They bring years of experience and deep understanding of military life.
We don’t do what we do for attention—but often our hard work gets noticed by the press.
Our blog features current articles about the many ways we’ve helped clients—and the ways our partners help us.
Annual reports and financials
NMCRS is a four-star rated charity on Charity Navigator, America's largest independent charity evaluator. Receiving an exceptional rating means we exceed industry standards and outperform most charities.
NMCRS has a Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid. This top distinction was earned for fiscal management practices and commitment to transparency and accountability.
Careers
NMCRS offices are located on major Navy and Marine Corps installations—and onboard ships—worldwide. Our staff members are highly trained, diverse individuals, many of whom have served themselves and understand the challenges of military life. Volunteers make up over 90% of our workforce. Want to join us?