Change the Air Foundation is dedicated to highlighting the serious impact of mold and water damage on the health, readiness, and mission success of the U.S. military. Mold and water damage in military housing is a widespread problem affecting the health and well-being of thousands of service members and their families. 

Persistent mold, gaslighting, inadequate remediation, and related health issues emphasize the urgent need for systemic reform. A 2024 Rolling Stone article cited Change the Air Foundation’s advocacy, quoting Michael Rubino as saying, “The Army’s guidance isn’t as thorough as the most widely used industry standard in the U.S.” Through education, policy efforts, and advocacy, as well as alliances with organizations such as the Military Housing Coalition, we aim to drive change. We offer the following resources to empower our nation’s heroes and their families as they confront water damage in their homes:

Mold in the Military with Dr. Bryan Stepanenko 

Dr. Bryan Stepanenko discusses operational environments where mold thrives and its impact on service members. Learn how to document mold exposure, gain leadership’s attention, build a support team, and navigate healing. Listen to Dr. Stepanenko’s interview here.

Protecting Military Families with Kate Needham

Kate Needham describes the personal and institutional challenges faced by military families navigating unhealthy privatized housing. Hear her compelling story, learn tips to keep your family safe, and find out the best way to involve your landlord and chain of command. Listen to Kate Needham’s interview here.

Mold, Military Housing, and the Law: The McCurry Family's Story

Casey McCurry shares her family’s heartbreaking story of severe health impacts from mold in military housing. She offers practical advice for families and guidance on advocating for systemic improvements. Listen to Casey McCurry’s interview here.

Start Here Resource Guide

This five-step guide will help you seamlessly navigate the inspection and remediation process. Each step is filled with important tips, free downloads, and more, so you can feel confident when speaking with professionals and making decisions for your home. Access this free guide here.

Change the Air Foundation is committed to empowering military families by raising awareness, providing resources and advocating for policy reform for safer military housing conditions, such as the proposed amendment to the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act requiring a health study on the effects indoor residential mold. This Veteran’s Day, we salute our troops and pledge to continue promoting healthier indoor air for our nation’s military families.