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COMPASS FAQ

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What is COMPASS?

COMPASS is a 12-hour Team mentoring program developed by spouses for spouses. (Virtual sessions have been modified to be a 9-hour program taught in three 3-hour sessions.) COMPASS focuses on spouses new to the Navy; however, all spouses are welcome. The standardized COMPASS Program was developed by volunteer spouses and is overseen by Naval Services FamilyLine. Naval Services FamilyLine is a non-profit  501(c)(3), volunteer organization serving sea service families worldwide.

 

What does COMPASS cover?

Using a standardized curriculum, COMPASS introduces participants to many aspects of the Navy lifestyle: the Navy mission, history, customs and traditions, rights and benefits, pay, deployments, moving, interpersonal communication, and investing in self and the community.

 

Who teaches the COMPASS course?

Mentors that are part of an area team present COMPASS.  COMPASS Mentors are trained volunteer Navy spouses who have experienced Navy life and possess the passion to Mentor other spouses, help them gain knowledge, and establish a peer network.

 

How much will COMPASS cost?

COMPASS is free.

 

Where are COMPASS sessions being held?

COMPASS sessions are held in locations all over the world.  For the most updated list, go to www.nsfamilyline.org/compass-locations.

 

How can I become a Mentor?

COMPASS is looking for Navy experienced spouses (three years as a Navy spouse) who want to become mentors and be a part of this exciting program. Mentors are required to attend COMPASS as participants and attend eight additional hours of Mentor Training. 

 

How long does it take to get COMPASS started in an area?

It takes approximately six to eight months to implement a COMPASS team. First, there must be spouse interest. A team forms with interested experienced possible Mentors. A COMPASS Session and Total Team Training is held. The team practices, and when ready, they can present COMPASS sessions.

 

Has anything like this been done before?

COMPASS is based on a Marine Corps program called L.I.N.K.S. and Pear Harbor, Hawaii’s SUBS Program. The SUBS program transitioned to COMPASS in March 2002.

Course materials are provided free-of-charge, thanks to the generosity of FamilyLine supporters and donors.

New to the Navy?  Check out these additional resources.

  • Anchors Aweigh - If a COMPASS class is not provided in your area, or you are not an active duty spouse, Anchors Aweigh provides spouses, parents and loved ones a brief overview of what to expect of the Navy life.

  • Checklist for New Military Spouses - important information for new military spouses.

  • MyNavy Family App - The first tool by the U.S. Navy developed for Navy spouses and Sailors’ families that combines authoritative information from more than two dozen websites into a single, convenient application.

  • Navy Spouse 101- an online introduction to Navy life. Sign up and search for the course "LWRW 100819".

  • Quick Tips for New Military Spouses - tips to help with military benefits.

  • Social Customs and Traditions - a free publication introducing spouses to Navy traditions and etiquette.

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