Dandelion Press ()

Social and mental health can be hard as a military child. Constant moves, new people and so many other obstacles make it hard to keep up with your interests and friends. However, Dandelion Press aims to change that. Dandelion Press is a nonprofit organization striving to empower military student journalism throughout the world.

The team, made up of Allison McKenzie (president and founder), Sophia Carey (vice president), Malia Brewer (editor of student affairs), and Trent Wilkerson (software developer), launched Dandelion Press on March 31, 2024.

All team members are high schoolers based in Germany, although Dandelion Press is not associated with any school itself, rather it is an initiative run by the leadership team. As military children, they understand the struggle to find journalism and writing opportunities, especially ones that have to do with their journey, outside of April 

Dandelion Press was started as a way for military students to share their unique perspective on international issues and the social difficulties and other aspects of being a military child throughout all twelve months of the year. In the future, Dandelion Press strives to have an international impact, receiving stories from military children living all over the globe. Giving military students an opportunity to explore their passion for writing and journalism, regardless of where they are in the world, is a goal that all team members strive for throughout Dandelion Press’ journey.  

LAUNCH CONTEST

For the launch, they are holding a Month of the Military Child Contest. To submit, you must submit an article belonging to one of the three categories: military-related journalism, social connections, and memoirs. First place winners in each category will receive a $20 AAFES gift card and runners up will receive a digital certificate of accomplishment. All winners and runners up will also be published in the first ever edition of Dandelion Press, as well as on the Stars and Stripes website.

Dandelion Press aims to help kids all around the world, not only with helping and guiding them through the highs and lows of being a military child, but also helping them discover and grow their passion for creative writing and journalism. As they grow both in number and in impact, they hope to gain the reach to hold more frequent publications, as well as provide more resources and opportunities for global military children.