From Military Service to Community Service
After receiving an honorable discharge from military service, co-founder Kris Tyte found himself at a crossroads. The structure, purpose, and sense of contribution that had defined military life left a void that civilian life struggled to fill.
Like many veterans, Kris grappled with the question: "What now?" The answer came not from trying to replicate military service, but from recognizing what made it meaningful. The opportunity to serve something larger than oneself.
This realization led to the concept of "Second Service." The idea that service to society doesn't end with a discharge certificate. It evolves, transforms, and continues in new forms.
The Second Service Philosophy
Core Principle: Service to society, rooted in Humanist principles, is a natural path to happiness and fulfillment.
What is Second Service?
Second Service recognizes that many people experience their most meaningful years while serving a cause greater than themselves (whether in the military, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, or other service organizations). When that formal service ends, the desire to contribute doesn't disappear.
Rather than viewing post-service life as a return to "normalcy," Second Service frames it as an opportunity to continue serving in new and equally meaningful ways:
- Community Service: Direct engagement with local communities to address needs and create positive change
- Mentorship: Sharing knowledge, experience, and guidance with the next generation
- Social Entrepreneurship: Creating sustainable solutions to societal challenges
- Advocacy: Speaking up for causes and communities that need support
- Volunteerism: Dedicating time and skills to nonprofit organizations and causes
The Path to Fulfillment
Research consistently shows that humans are happiest when contributing to something beyond themselves. The Second Service philosophy embraces this truth and provides a framework for sustained engagement:
Purpose
Finding meaning through contribution to society and community
Connection
Building relationships through shared service and common goals
Growth
Continuous learning and development through diverse experiences
Impact
Creating tangible positive change in communities and lives
Humanist Foundations
Second Service is grounded in Humanist principles that emphasize:
- The inherent worth and dignity of all people
- Compassion and empathy as guides for action
- Reason and evidence as tools for understanding
- Responsibility to fellow humans and society
- The potential for humans to solve problems and improve conditions
USA Web School: Second Service in Action
USA Web School was founded as a direct expression of the Second Service philosophy. Every program, initiative, and partnership reflects the commitment to ongoing community contribution:
Operation Determination (Ghana)
A computer lab serving thousands of students, demonstrating that service knows no borders
Youth Volunteer Programs
Introducing young people to the fulfillment of service while addressing community needs
Tree, Yard, Turf & Earth
Youth helping elderly and disabled neighbors, building intergenerational connections through service
The organization itself operates on Second Service principles: the Tyte family funds all administrative costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to programs. This commitment demonstrates that service isn't just what we do. It's who we are.
Finding Your Second Service
You don't need military experience to embrace Second Service. Anyone can commit to ongoing contribution to society. Here's how to start:
- Reflect: What skills, experiences, and passions do you have to offer?
- Explore: What needs exist in your community that resonate with you?
- Connect: Find organizations and causes aligned with your values
- Commit: Dedicate regular time and energy to service
- Adapt: Allow your service to evolve with your circumstances and community needs
Remember: Second Service isn't about grand gestures. It's about consistent, meaningful contribution to something larger than yourself. Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.