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AMC prepares to kick-off initiatives in support of the Year of the Air Force Family

  • Published
  • By Bekah Clark
  • Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Air Mobility Command leadership is preparing to kick-off its own initiatives in support of the Year of the Air Force Family a program introduced by the Air Force. 

AMC is working to establish its own initiatives and programs exclusive to the needs of its Airmen. AMC plans to conduct research at each of its wings to determine the specific challenges its Airmen and their families face.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley have designated July 2009 to July 2010 as the "Year of the Air Force Family," a time to focus on Air Force programs highlighting the importance of, and commitment to, the entire Air Force family. This includes all Airmen, married and single; spouses; children; Air Force civilians; extended families; and retirees.

In August, Secretary Donley stressed the Air Force's commitment to its families and outlined the year-long initiative at the 2009 Air Force Sergeant's Association Professional Airmen's conference in Atlanta. Significant emphasis will be placed on four important areas for Air Force families: affordable and available family housing, safe schools that challenge and prepare children for the future, accessible and quality medical care for Air Force families, and quality childcare. 

Findings from April's "Caring for People" forum held in Arlington, Va., provided direction for the program aimed to meet the unique needs of Air Force families. More than 200 Air Force behavioral specialists, chaplains, family advocates and other family support members gathered for the forum to discuss how to better care for Air Force families. 

The collective Air Force family can expect programs and events tailored to the needs of their individual communities. These programs may include family support programs already available, as well as new program initiatives that can serve as valuable support programs long into the future. 

To learn about Air Force-wide initiatives, monthly themes and programs, contact the local Airman and Family and Readiness Center or log onto http://www.af.mil/yoaff/index.asp.