Much offered from the pros at AFRC

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Reggie Manning
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Members of Team Malmstrom may not be aware of the many services offered by the Airmen and Family Readiness Center. The AFRC is an immense source for information on military matters as well as family relations. Every month the AFRC hosts a number of classes, seminars and informational briefings that are helpful aids to either sustaining a military career, transitioning out of military life, or for new members who are fresh to a military lifestyle and seek supportive guidance.

According to the website, www.341fss.com, the AFRC has four main areas they provide service for:
  • Assistance for unit leadership in their efforts to support readiness and retention;
  • Coordination and consultation with other base and civilian agencies to strengthen base policies and programs, all in an effort to benefit Air Force families;
  • Information and referrals, assessment counseling and follow-ups; and
  • Family life education and skills programs.
Those who are eligible for these programs are: active-duty, Guard, Reserve and retired military members and their families, along with DoD civilians and their families.

The AFRC has listed a total of 11 programs that will be offered during the month of March.

Pre-separation briefing
The pre-separation briefing, sometimes confused with the Transition Assistance Program four-day class, is a mandated briefing that informs separating Airmen on their entitled benefits once reaching civilian status. This course must be completed within 90 days of separation or retirement. Spouses are encouraged to attend.

In-house sponsorship training
This training is offered monthly and provides an opportunity for sponsors of incoming Airmen to review guidelines and ensure sponsors have a full understanding of the resources available. It is imperative that the sponsor is knowledgeable and has a positive attitude when they are assisting inbound Airmen. In most cases, the sponsor is the first person that the new member meets and his or her attitude and professionalism serves as an ambassador for Team Malmstrom.

Smooth Move
Smooth Move is a mandatory class implemented to assist Airmen with the common difficulties of a PCS move. To many who have never completed this process or haven't in quite some time, this class is essential for learning ways to make the member's experience less difficult. Checklists are reviewed and helpful tips are given to make the move as smooth as possible. Spouses are encouraged to attend as well.

Right Start
Members who are new to Malmstrom are mandated to attend this course. This class provides the member with critical information and tools that will help them navigate their Malmstrom career correctly. Childcare can be provided throughout the duration of the class, with advance notice, since spouses are also welcome to attend this function. For child care assistance, contact AFRC.

Retiree pre-separation briefing
Like the pre-separation briefing, this course helps the member make the transition from active-duty to civilian life, but focuses more on the benefits that the member will be entitled to as a retiree. Upon ending an active-duty career, there are many options and benefits that the member is entitled to that are sometimes over looked or ignored. This class prepares the Airman for the upcoming challenges that they may endure and informs them of options that may be available to them. The class is mandatory within 90 days of separation, but can be accomplished as early as two years before retirement.

Understanding foster care and the adoption process
This course is structured to inform the considering member of the foster care and adoption processes. Members may have looked into adoption or foster care but still have unanswered questions or worries about the process. This course is designed to assist the member in their decision making and point them in the right direction.

Bundles for Babies
This function is held to provide expecting parents with valuable information of parenting. The members will be given information on health and nutrition for newborns, budgeting, techniques for calming a crying baby and guidance on other supportive programs. Though this class is not mandatory, the member will receive an incentive that includes a bundle of baby items valued at $75.

Pre-deployment briefing
This briefing is held monthly at building 1192 and is mandatory for all members who are deploying or going TDY for more than 90 days. It is conducted to help the member prepare mentally, physically and emotionally for the upcoming departure. There a lot of personal, as well as work-related, issues that may arise in the member's absence, so this briefing helps the member organize and create a plan to deal with the challenges ahead.

10 steps to federal employment
This workshop assists individuals who are interested in federal employment and covers an understanding of the federal hiring system. Keywords and formats for federal resume building will be provided as well.

Small business association workshop
This course is designed for members who are considering starting a small business and provides the member with helpful tools to make the first step. It is very helpful to create a game plan when making a big decision such as starting a business. This workshop points out potential downfalls and helps the member prepare or avoid detrimental risks.

Post-deployment decompression forum
This course addresses many post deployment issues such as adjustment, family reunions and work life challenges. The member will learn how to effectively deal with the stress of new changes within the stateside operation and learn how to recognize early signs of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Making the transition from deployed duty back to stateside life can sometimes be difficult, but Airmen don't have to go through it alone.

The AFRC's motto is "supporting the mission" and the facility takes pride in accomplishing this on a daily basis. Through their helpful programs, workshops and seminars, the AFRC strives to enhance quality of life and continue to support readiness for any issue a member of Team Malmstrom may encounter. For more information, visit www.341fss.com or call the AFRC help desk at 731-4900.