LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Families are the column of support Airmen rely on, providing love and compassion for warfighters. However, sometimes these families need help, too. The Airman and Family Readiness Center is there to help Airmen and their families in times of need.
The AFRC offers nine areas of assistance, including relocation, personal financial management, personal and family work life, employment and transition assistance. In addition, the AFRC provides individual and family readiness, computer training and assistance and works with the Air Force Aid Society.
The AFRC started in the 1980s from a concept in which military families would help other families assimilate into the military lifestyle. The Air Force saw a need for force wellness and decided to create the Family Support Center.
Over time, the center expanded their services to assist single Airmen, changing their name to the Airman and Family Readiness Center.
One of the most important issues the AFRC assists with is the preparation for and stress of deployments.
"Our goal is to help families during all phases of deployment," said Dawn Teagle, chief of the AFRC.
The center provides assistance before, during and after deployments for families of deployed Airmen.
The AFRC also provides assistance to spouses new to the military. New military spouses may not understand the dynamic of the military lifestyle. The AFRC provides a class called "Heartlink," which provides an in-depth look at the ins and outs of the Air Force way of life.
"Most of our members were either active duty or a military spouse and we have 'walked the walk' and know that it is challenging and rewarding," said Kassia Reedy, AFRC community readiness technician.
The classes provide spouses a great opportunity to network and socialize with other families. AFRC staff members are always available to help and provide any necessary information.
"It's a great place for spouses and a great resource for military families," said Mindy Umbaugh, wife of Senior Airman Joseph Umbaugh. "When my husband deploys, this is a place I run to."
The AFRC is available for all active duty members and their families, Department of Defense civilians, contractors and retirees. The AFRC is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is located in the Military Personal Flight building. To schedule an appointment, call the AFRC at 764-3990.