Whether you’ve served in the military or have loved ones who have, you’ve probably heard a little friendly inter-branch rivalry along the way. It’s all in good fun — more like siblings keeping each other humble — and it’s part of what makes the military community so uniquely connected.

Here’s a classic, lighthearted take:

How each branch “secures a building”:

• Army: Posts a guard at all entries and exits. Nobody gets in or out.
• Marines: Storms the building, capturing all inside
• Navy: Turns off the lights, locks up, and goes home
• Air Force: Takes out a 30-year lease with an option to buy

And for the Space Force, well, let’s just say they’ve added a whole new dimension to the conversation.

All humor aside, every branch plays a critical role in our nation’s defense. No matter when or how you served, you took an oath that reflects a deep commitment to something bigger than yourself. That service matters, and it’s why you’ve earned access to the full range of no-cost programs and support available through Veterans Outreach Center (VOC).

Now, veterans and supporters from every branch have another opportunity to show their pride, and maybe a little friendly competitive spirit, with VOC’s new Six Strong Challenge, presented by Community Bank.

What is the Six Strong Challenge?

The Six Strong Challenge is a community-wide giving campaign with a spirited twist—an opportunity to celebrate service, strengthen connections, and perhaps settle, once and for all, which branch inspires the most pride.

Taking place during Military Appreciation Month, this friendly competition brings together supporters of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force in a head-to-head fundraising effort from May 1–31. The goal is simple: to see which branch’s community can rally the most support for the life-changing programs at Veterans Outreach Center.

It’s a chance to stand proudly behind your branch, enjoy a bit of good-natured competition, and, most importantly, help ensure that the men and women who served our country have the resources they need to build strong, successful civilian lives right here in the Greater Rochester community.

How Does it Work?

Participation is simple—and open to everyone. You don’t need to have served to join in; you just need to choose the branch you’d like to support.

Whether you’re a proud Army veteran, cheering on a family member in the Coast Guard, or simply feel a connection to a branch that resonates with you, there’s a place for you in this effort.

When you visit our campaign page, you’ll find a leaderboard tracking support across all six branches. Each gift made in honor of a branch serves as a “vote,” helping elevate that team in the standings.

While the winning branch will certainly enjoy well-earned bragging rights, the true impact extends far beyond the competition. Every dollar raised through the Six Strong Challenge directly supports our work at Veterans Outreach Center — advancing workforce development, expanding access to wellness services, and ensuring safe, stable housing for veterans in our community.

Sponsorship Opportunities

We are deeply grateful to Community Bank for their leadership as our Presenting Sponsor and for helping bring this initiative to life. They’ve set the bar high, and we’re excited to see others jump in alongside them.

Local businesses, community organizations, and corporate partners are invited to join the fun and make an impact. You can champion a branch, match donations, or help rally support for your team. There are plenty of opportunities to combine a little friendly competition with meaningful community impact.

If your organization would like to get involved, Michele Martell, VOC’s Community Engagement Manager, would love to connect and share how you can become a true force multiplier in this effort.

585.295.7824
Michele.Martell@vocroc.org

Where to Donate

Starting May 1st, it’s time to put your money where your military pride is.

Whether you’re Army Strong, the Few and the Proud, Forged by the Sea, Aiming High, Always Ready, or Always Above, we need you in the fight. Ultimately, we might wear different uniforms, but we all share the same mission of empowering our veterans to thrive. 

Bookmark vocroc.org/six-strong-challenge to make sure you’re ready to choose your branch and make your investment.

May the best branch win.