Volunteer Newsletter - Hurlburt Field Force Support Squadron

Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
Issue No: 139
January 29, 2015
Hurlburt Field
Airman & Family Readiness Center
1SOFSS/FSFR
220 Lukasik Ave
Building 90213
Hurlburt Field FL 32544
Tijuana Odom Volunteer
Coordinator
[email protected]
884-1533
How the Volunteer Resource Program Works:
 If you see something you’re interested in volunteering for please contact the A&FRC
Volunteer Coordinator: [email protected] to be officially enrolled in the Volunteer Resource
Program (VRP). You will then be added to the VRP newsletter email distribution list to begin receiving
the semimonthly volunteer newsletter directly.
 There are two ways to use the VRP
1) Select a volunteer opportunity from the newsletter, and then contact the agency POC directly to
volunteer
2) Be placed with an agency by the Hurlburt VRP coordinator
(Email request to [email protected])
 If you plan to attend any of the volunteer opportunities in the newsletter, please contact the agency or
event POC beforehand so they can get a tentative head count
 IF YOU ARE AN AGENCY OR KNOW OF AN AGENCY IN NEED OF VOLUNTEERS AND WANT TO ADD A
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: email [email protected]
NEW
Who: Saint Mary Catholic School
What: 16th Annual Brite Stars Charity Dinner
When: 6 Feb 2015 1800-2230
Where: 110 Robinwood Drive SW Ft Walton Beach, FL 32548 (bldg. adjacent to the school)
How: Volunteers are needed to show military presence for our school. (greet, mingle, escort, farewell).
Why: This event will help St Mary’s update their facilities and allow the purchase of Ipads for
student use in the classroom and continue to update school campus security.
Number of Volunteers: 12
Phone/Email: SSgt Kentavist Brackin; phone-850.884.7906/email: Kentavist.brackin@us,af.mil
NEW
Who: 1 SOFSS
What: Presidents Day 5K Run
When: 12 Feb 2015 @ 0615
Where: Aderholt Fitness Center
How: Various positions are available i.e., road guards, water stations, and other areas.
Number of Volunteers: Several
Phone/Email: AIC Jeremy Trost phone-850.884.4412/email: [email protected]
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
NEW
Who: 1 SOFSS/FSFY Youth Center Sports
What: Youth Baseball
When: 9 & 11 Feb 2015. 1300-1500 (coach training)
Practices will be held on Mon/Wed or Tue/Thu in the evenings. One hour per practice.
Games start 4 April and will be played at Eglin Youth Fields and Hurlburt Youth Fields. Season ends 28
May 15.
Where: Hurlburt Field Youth Center
How: Volunteers will coach youth sports and set-up how they will run the practices. Times and dates
are set for practices and games. Coaches can ask for equipment that will not be already available for the
practices and if it can be supplied it will.
Why: Multiple sport clinics and leagues are held throughout the year to teach kid the basic
skills of different sports while making it fun.
Number of Volunteers: Several
Good to know: Equipment and areas will be provided.
Phone/Email: Nick Tsanos phone-850.884.6355/email: [email protected]
NEW
Who: Heart of the Bride
What: Emerald Coast Mudrun for Orphans
When: 16 May 2015 (all day)
Where: NWFSC 100 E. College Blvd. Niceville, FL
How: Volunteers with excellent communication skills are needed to serve as Team Leaders for
military obstacle officiators. They will serve as a leader alongside 4-5 other leaders, using Excel to
manage over 200 military volunteers.
Why: Heart of the Bride is a non-profit that helps support orphans all over the world. The mudrun is
our main fundraiser and ALL profits go to supporting the children. This event supports orphans in
several countries. This is a large event with more than 4,800 racers and 600 volunteers.
Number of Volunteers: 2
Good to know: Volunteers will have duties before event.
Phone/Email: Kristi Mann phone; 850.678.9008/email: [email protected]
NEW
Who: Okaloosa Saves-University of FL/Okaloosa Extension
What: Building Industry Association Home Show- Okaloosa Saves Booth
When: Saturday, 7 March @ 0800- 1800
Where: Emerald Coast Convention Center, Ft Walton Beach FL
How: Volunteers will assist by staffing exhibits, handing out materials, moderate seminars (introduce
speaker/act as timer), assist with voting for “Piggy Back” pageant (youth).
Why: This event is presented to enhance the general public’s awareness of our mission of
Saving Money, and to support America Saves/Military Saves/ Okaloosa Saves Week.
Number of Volunteers: 10
Good to know: Ability to positively interact with public is helpful.
Phone/Email: Sharon McAuliffe; phone-850.797.2505/email: [email protected]
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
NEW
Who: Fisher House of the Emerald Coast Inc.
What: Baytowne Wharf Mardi Gras Parade
When: 15 & 17 Feb 2015
Saturday, 15 Feb
1200-1400 3 ppl needed to get floats registered
1300-1500 10 ppl needed to monitor the parade route
Tuesday, Feb 17
1500-1700 2 ppl needed to get floats registered
1600-1800 10 ppl needed to monitor the parade route
Where: Marina parking lot in the Village of Baytowne Wharf (located to the left of the tennis courts)
How: Volunteers will help get floats registered, monitor the parade route and crowd control.
Why: The Fisher House is a unique private-public partnership that supports America’s military
in their time of need. All proceeds will be donated to the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast.
Number of Volunteers: 30
Phone/Email: phone-850.259.4956/email: [email protected] Please send
email to volunteer. Please include your name, email address, and cell phone.
NEW
Who: Fisher House of the Emerald Coast Inc.
What: Raisin’ of the Green!
When: 15 Mar 2015 1200-1500
Where: Magnolia Grill 157 Brooks St. SE, Ft Walton Bch 32548
How: Volunteers are needed to serve as dishwashers, hostesses, food runners and bussers.
Why: The Fisher House is a unique private-public partnership that supports America’s military
in their time of need. All proceeds will be donated to the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast.
Number of Volunteers: 20
Phone/Email: phone-850.259.4956/email: [email protected]
Send email to volunteer. Please include your name, email address, and cell phone.
NEW
Who: Fisher House of the Emerald Coast Inc.
What: Planning committees for Taste of Northbay and Fairways for Fisher House
When: 7 May 2015
Where: Marina parking lot in the Village of Baytowne Wharf (located to the left of the tennis courts)
How: Right now, we are in the planning stage of our two big events and need volunteers to help plan
and make the events happen. Volunteers are needed to help with marketing and to help ensure flyers
are distributed and stocked until the event. Volunteers are also needed to help plan the Gala (dinner
and decorations and helping plan the VIP reception.
Why: The Fisher House is a unique private-public partnership that supports America’s military in
their time of need. All proceeds will be donated to the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast.
Number of Volunteers: 30
Good to know: Volunteers will need to be able to attend a monthly meeting with their committee.
Phone/Email: phone-850.259.4956/email: [email protected] Please send
email to volunteer. Please include your name, email address, and cell phone.
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
HOT
Who: Fisher House of the Emerald Coast Inc.
What: House Helper Training
When: 4 Feb 1700-1900
Where: Fisher House 350 Boatner Rd Eglin AFB, FL 32542
How: Volunteers are needed on weekends and evenings to answer questions or provide help with
guests needs when Fisher House staff is not present.
Why: The Fisher House is a unique private-public partnership that supports America’s military
in their time of need. All proceeds will be donated to the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast.
Number of Volunteers: Several
Good to Know: Let us know if you need base access when you contact us- we can help you with that!
Phone/Email: phone-850.259.4956/email: [email protected]
Send email to volunteer. Please include your name, email address, and cell phone.
HOT
Who: Liza Jackson Preparatory School
What: Career Day
When: 5 Feb 2015 (0800-1000)
Where: 546 Mary Esther Blvd, Ste.1 Fort Walton Beach FL 32548
How: Volunteers will be utilized as “Career Day Speakers”
Why: This is an excellent way for students to learn more, through firsthand accounts, about the
world of work.
Number of Volunteers: Several
Good to Know: 1) Volunteers will talk to the class in terms they can understand. 2) Bring show &
tell type items. (i. e. stethoscopes, fire hats, fire trucks, police cars and ambulances. 3) Involve the
kids in a scenario. 4) Dress in clothes/uniform you would normally wear to work. 5) Explain your job
to the class using simple terms.
Phone/Email: Dr. Lee Pittman; phone- 850.833.3321/email: [email protected]
HOT
Who: Hawthorn House
What: Valentine Gala
When: Thursday, 12 February 2015; 1700-1900
Where: 1200 Hawthorn House Dr., Shalimar, FL 32579
How: Volunteers are needed as early as 1400 to assist with set-up, serving, and then others are
needed to stay until 2000 to assist with cleanup. They need roughly 6-8 volunteers at any given time.
Why: This volunteer opportunity is to assist with the Enlisted Village’s Valentine’s Gala.
Number of Volunteers: 6-8 per shift
Good to Know: Whatever gift you hand to them will not be as important as the gift of time you spend
with them.
Phone/Email: Theresa Brooks/609-2550/ [email protected]
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
Who: Fisher House of the Emerald Coast Inc.
What: Sandestin Wine Festival
When: 16-18 April 2015
Where: Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin
How: Volunteers will be utilized to set-up, break down, assist wine distributors, scan tickets, check ids,
help with VIP area, and many other miscellaneous duties.
Why: To help raise funds to support the Fisher House and the families staying there.
Number of Volunteers: 300 volunteers needed
Good to Know: Volunteers ages 21 and over receive a ticket to the wine festival for the day they are
not volunteering.
Phone/Email: Kim Henderson /email: [email protected] Email Kim to be placed
on the sign up list.
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: W.C. Pryor Middle School, R.O.T.C Program
What: W.C. Pryor MS R.O.T.C. Program; training and mentorship
When: Mondays + Thursdays (days are flexible); 0630-0730/1430-1530
Where: 201 Racetrack Rd, N.W., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
How: Volunteers will teach military protocol; instruct basic drill and ceremony; mentorship; and help
coordinate meaningful off-campus activities.
Why: This program is not publicly funded, and cannot be offered as a class for school credit at
the middle school level. Therefore, we are in desperate need of qualified training and
mentorship on a voluntary basis.
Number of Volunteers: min. 3
Good to Know: Expertise in drill & ceremony/flag protocol preferred; this will be Ongoing: Twice a
week, either morning or afternoon block.
Phone/Email: Larry Cleveland /email: Ron Panucci, Assistant Principal
[email protected] phone: 833-3613
Who: Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast
What: Power Hour- Homework Help in Math and Science (KG- 4th Grade)
When: Monday (1515-1615), Tuesday (1515-1615), Wednesday (1515-1615), Thursday (15151615)
Where: Destin Elementary School, Boys & Girls Club Afterschool Program
How: Power Hour provided Boys & Girls Club members with the support, resources and guidance
necessary to complete their homework- and start the school day with a sense of confidence and ability.
Why: The members acquired new skills and became more confident learners as result of the
homework assistance program. Our members enjoy school more, improved their grades and
attendance.
Number of Volunteers: 2-3 each day
Good to Know: 1) Volunteers will assist a Program Specialist with their group of members.
Phone/Email: John Bryant; phone- 850.833.3132/email: [email protected]
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
Who: American Red Cross
What: Hurlburt Outpatient Clinic Volunteers (Medical records/Front Desk Greeter/Administrative)
When: Varies
Where: 113 Lielmanis Ave Bldg 91020
How: The volunteer will perform light administrative office work which may include: greeting
patients and family members, answering phones, filing, computer/data entry, making photocopies,
pulling patient records, and other clerical/administrative duties as deemed necessary to support the
assigned medical department.
Why: This position supports the mission of the American Red Cross and 1st Special Operations
Good to know: This position may require light physical activity, such as bending, lifting no more
than25 lbs, and other duties which may require moderate physical activity. Volunteers must be able
to maintain and ensure patient confidentiality and remain professional in a military environment.
Phone/Email: [email protected] or www.yourredcross.org
Who: Emerald Coast Science Center
What: Front desk volunteers
When: Varies
Number of Volunteers: Open
POC/Phone/Email: 850-664-1261 Email: [email protected]
Who: Gator Lakes Golf Course
What: Golf Course Volunteers
When: Mon-Sun 0630 - until
Where: 403 Walkup Way, Hurlburt Field, FL 32544
How: Volunteers will serve as Starters/Marshalls; act as course starter for #1 TEE and to monitor
play on the course assisting players as necessary.
Why: To further enhance the experience of our customers by providing this service.
Number of Volunteers: 6-8
Good to Know: Volunteers should have a basic knowledge of golf.
Phone/Email: Don Kramer, General Manager – [email protected] or Jesse Alcala
[email protected] phone: 881-2251
Who: The Salvation Army
What: After School Program
When: Academic School Calendar; Monday- Friday 1500-1700 as available
Where: Community Center 425 Mary Esther Cutoff
How: The volunteer will serve as a tutor/assistant mentor assisting in homework help, tutoring,
playing active games/activities and passing out snacks and school supplies
Why: To provide a safe place for children grades K-12 after school and to support the youth of Fort
Walton with character building and academic enforcement.
Number of Volunteers: 5
Phone/Email: Denzell McClain - [email protected]
Who: Habitat for Humanity
What: Habitat ReStore
When: Tues- Friday, 1000-1800, Saturday, 0900-1700
Where: 39 SE Eglin Parkway Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
How: Various volunteer positions: Volunteers are needed to help display items for sale; drivers are
needed to help pick up donations from residential and business locations within the community; A
talented person is needed to maintain/update Facebook, DiggersList, Pinterest and other social
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
media with the latest and greatest news to help attract more people to the store.
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: Our mission is to eliminate poverty housing in our community and the world.
POC/Phone/Email: Charles Cooper, 685.0686 or [email protected]
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Panhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)
What: Animal Shelter that provides pet adoption, animal control, and veterinary services.
When: Varies
Where: 752 Lovejoy Road, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
How: Various volunteer positions: Volunteers are needed to exercise dogs, bathe puppies and
kittens, groom the animals, collect towels & blankets for animals, cut & sew blankets, volunteer at
the shelter, work on the website, help with fundraising and special events, serve on a committee, or
work the thrift shop.
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: Must complete an application and attend a Volunteer Orientation http://www.pawsshelter.com/volunteer/volunteer_application_0808.pdf
POC/Phone/Email: Volunteer Coordinator 850.243.1525
Who: Destin Library
What: Community Service Opportunities for Young Adults (16 & older)
When: Interested youth are typically scheduled for no less than two hours and no more than four
hours of community service per week. Days of the week & times are coordinated through the
school year
Where: Destin Library
Good to know: Community service activities can include assisting with collection
maintenance, reading to young children, assisting patrons in locating materials, helping patrons
with computer usage, providing support for summer programming for children and young adults
and much, much more.
POC/Phone/Email: Youth Services Librarian - 850-837-8572
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Sharing and Caring
When: One day a week 0900-1130 or 1130-1400 Monday through Thursday or 0900- 1200 on Fri.
Where: 104 Bullock Boulevard in Niceville
How: Caring adult volunteers are needed to interview clients or assist with food sorting and
packing.
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: application must be completed
POC/Phone/Email: Gloria Price, 850-678-8459
Who: Meals on Wheels
What: Deliver meals to our local elderly
When: Varies
Where: local area
How: Volunteers are needed to deliver meals
Why: To deliver meals to individuals over the age of 60 who are ill or physically unable to provide
complete meals for themselves.
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: Please use the following link to sign up:
POC/Phone/Email: TSgt [email protected] - 884-9069
Who: 1 SOW Legal Office
What: Will notarization ceremony
When: Every Tues at approx. 0930 and Every Wed at approx. 1330
Where: 212 Lukasik Ave, Suite 255, Hurlburt Field, FL 32544
How: Volunteer(s) would serve at witnesses in the will notarization ceremonies. They observe the
oath given by the clients and they take an oath then witness signatures of the clients and sign verify
they witnessed the signatures.
Why: When a client receives a Will or other estate documents they must be notarized and
witnessed by two witnesses. This requires our paralegals to take time away from their primary
duties for approximately 1-2 hours twice a week to serve as witnesses, causing a back log on our
primary mission.
Number of Volunteers: 2 per session
Good to know: great volunteer opportunity
POC/Phone/Email: Capt Dana Cates 850-884-7821 [email protected]
Who: Okaloosa School District Mentors Program ~ Mentor
What: Mentor
When: Every 3rd Friday of each month/1:00pm (30 minute one-time training)
Where: One time training at Hurlburt Field A&FRC /220 Lukasik Ave/Bldg. 90213/Actual
mentoring takes place at choice of one of 22 Okaloosa Schools
How: The Okaloosa School District is recruiting mentors at all academic levels throughout the
county. The District screens, orients, trains and matches volunteer mentors with students, and
maintains support of mentoring relationships between students and mentors. Mentoring takes
place during the school year on the school campus for 30 minutes to one hour each week at a time
during the school day that is convenient for both mentor and student. There is no outside contact
or money involved, just guidance. The goal is to improve the child’s self-esteem with positive adult
interaction.
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
Why: This mentor program helps children who have been retained from the previous grade level,
or are in danger of being retained. Studies have shown that students who are mentored develop
more positive attitudes, achieve higher grades, improve relationships with adults and peers, are
better able to express feelings, are more likely to trust their teachers, and develop higher levels of
self-confidence.
Number of Volunteers (needed): As many as possible
Good to Know: Multiple local schools available and mentor training is free.
POC/Phone/Email: Nancy Prescott /[email protected] /884-5441
Who: Hurlburt Community Center/Landing Zone (LZ) ~ Morale Boosting Event
What: Community Event Facilitator
When: Anytime (can do a one-time event or do an ongoing event)
Where: Hurlburt Landing Zone Community Center /443 Cody Avenue, Bldg. 90337
How: The Landing Zone is looking for volunteers to host morale events, at the Landing Zone
Community Center and on occasion another location on base, to host a morale boosting event for
Airmen or Airmen and their families. You can volunteer on your own, or form a volunteer
committee. You would act as the event supervisor(s), helping to carry out events like Family Board
Game nights or Movie Night. The goal of volunteer committees would be for a group of volunteers
to take an event and run with it. For the Airmen, by the Airmen! Note, the LZ is always open to and
encourages input on creating fresh programming.
Why: These volunteer opportunities will provide an opportunity for leadership, by taking the lead
on development and implementation of programs!
Number of Volunteers: 1-4 volunteers per event
Good to Know: A few of the events available: Pool League/Tournaments Committee:
Every Thursday 1730-2030. The cost is FREE to participants. Running 6-week leagues
continuously. Volunteers assist LZ Staff with running of weekly league. Family Game Night:
Inviting community to come to LZ Community Center and enjoy a night of board games, billiards
etc. with family members to get them out of the house for one night a month and spend some time
bonding with friends and family in a relaxed atmosphere (away from home distractions). Looking for
volunteers to assist with running operations of Family Game Night, willing to play games with family
members, Airmen etc.
POC/Phone/Email: Robert Scott /884-5080 /[email protected]
Who: American Cancer Society ~ Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of the
Emerald Coast Event Planning Committee
What: Event Planning Committee Volunteer
When: Bi monthly meetings
Where: American Cancer Society/99 Eglin Pkwy NE Suite 37/Fort Walton
How: Several committee member positions, including the following below. Detailed descriptions
are available upon request: Team Development, Operations, Logistics, Survivor/ Caregiver
Advocacy, Breast Cancer Education, Mission Education, or Media/ PR. A wonderful way to gain
leadership experience and work with a group of passionate community members in the mission to
cure breast cancer. Every Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk is a powerful and inspiring
opportunity to unite as a community to honor breast cancer survivors, and raise awareness about
steps we can take to reduce our risk of getting breast cancer to help the American Cancer Society
fight the disease with breast cancer research, and to provide information and services, and access
to mammograms for women who need them.
Why: The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health
organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer,
saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and
service.
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
Number of Volunteers: unlimited
Good to Know: Since Making Strides began 20 years ago; breast cancer death rates have declined
more than 32 percent.
POC /Phone/Email: Brittany Wade /244-3813 x 3556/[email protected]
Who: USO ~ Center Support & Volunteer Committees
What: USO NAS Pensacola Center Support Volunteers
When: Monday - Friday (10am - 2pm) or (2pm - 5pm) or (5pm - 8pm)
Saturday & Sunday (12pm - 4pm) or (4pm - 8pm)
Where: USO NAS Pensacola Center Support /153 Ellyson Avenue, Building 625D, Pensacola; USO
Northwest Florida Volunteer Committees: Based on individual Committee.
How: Volunteers assist the Center Manager in all aspects of running the USO Center and/or join
volunteer committees for specific events.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: USO Northwest Florida is committed to lifting the spirits of America’s Troops and
their families within the Northwest Florida panhandle through volunteers committed to supporting
America’s Troops and their families.
POC /Phone /Email: Dana Cervantes /[email protected] /850-455-8280, Opt. 4
Who: Hurlburt Airman’s Attic ~ Donation Sorting Volunteers and Truck Drivers
What: Volunteers to help sort donations or truck drivers to pick-up/drop off large donations
When: On-Going /Monday, Wednesday, Friday /10am-2pm and as needed
Where: Airman’s Attic /201 Simpson Ave. Bldg. 90320 /Hurlburt Field
*Items will need to be picked up and dropped off to and from the Airman's Attic
How: The Airman’s Attic is in need of volunteers to help sort donations and to help with general
operations at the Attic. The Attic is also in need of volunteers that may have a large vehicle and are
willing to pick up or drop off large donations/furnishings that people would like to donate or need
to get to their houses from our location.
Why: The Airman's Attic serves airmen E-6 and below and their dependents. It supplies uniform
items, toys, clothing, kitchen items, electronics, linens, and home furnishings free of charge. The
Airman's Attic runs solely on donations and volunteers.
Number of Volunteers: Unlimited
Good to Know: Truck volunteers will be on call Monday/Wednesday /Friday from 10am-2pm to
make pickups and deliveries of items. You will load and transport these items.
POC /Phone/Email: SSgt Nikki Jackson /Toni Duval /884-7769 (please be sure to leave a message
if no answer)
Who: Hurlburt Spouses Club ~ Thrift Shop Helpers
What: Thrift Shop Volunteer (general helper)
When: During an open hours or work day of the thrift shop. Current hours are Mon, Tue, Wed
9:30am-1:00pm; and the 1st and 3rd Saturday 9:30am-1:00pm
Where: Hurlburt Thrift Shop /120 Simpson Ave, Building #90320
How: Volunteers are needed to sort and price donations, rotate merchandise, and assist customers
with consignments as well as light cleaning and stocking or removing merchandise from shelves.
Anyone who has access to the base can help out.
Why: The Thrift Shop supports our base population by providing a place to exchange goods. The
operation of the thrift shop relies heavily on volunteers. Without them, they could cease to operate.
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
Number of Volunteers: As many as are interested
Good to Know: Volunteers who become consigners realize special volunteer benefits.
POC /Phone /Email: Jill Armbruster (manager) /884-3098 (please leave a message if no answer)
Who: American Red Cross - Outreach Volunteers
What: Outreach Volunteers help spread awareness of the Service to Armed Forces Mission by
providing Indoctrination Briefs to new troops, Command Briefs, and by participating in base or
command events by providing a resource table with brochures and other literature. Outreach
Volunteers also conduct pre- and post-deployment services to include distribution of comfort kits
to deploying personnel as well as attending welcome home events.
When: Indoctrination and command briefs are generally given during the normal work week of
Monday through Friday. However, many of our outreach events are after hours or on weekends
which would permit those with limited availability (such as AD service members) to assist.
Where: Branch Office, Eglin AFB, Northwest Florida Chapter of American Red Cross
How: Serve to educate the military community and their families by conducting briefings or
information/community fairs or other outreach events; Serve to identify, plan, and deliver pre and
post deployment support needs including deployment comfort kits, briefings, and events to military
personnel and their families.
Why: Great way to: support the military, be out in the community, offer administrative support,
interact directly with clients, work with technology and help with special events.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Volunteer benefits include: meet new people, build resume, learn new skills, give
back to others, explore a career or get to know the community.
POC /Phone /Email: LaDonna Spivey /Volunteer Coordinator /[email protected]
Who: American Red Cross - Emergency Communication Casework Volunteers
What: Volunteers provide Emergency Communication services to Red Cross clients including
access to financial assistance, to members of the U.S. military and their families and to other eligible
Red Cross clients.
When: Volunteer in the office, during business hours (daytime, M-F) or volunteer from home.
Where: Branch Office, Eglin AFB, Northwest Florida Chapter of American Red Cross
How: Emergency Communication Casework Volunteers provide the final contact, after “Red Cross
Verification” has taken place, to families that have experienced an emergency. This invaluable
service can be very rewarding, but is not for everyone. If you have a strong sense of compassion
and a desire to help others this may be what you are looking for.
Why: Great way to: teach & train others, support the military, be out in the community, offer
administrative support, interact directly with clients and prepare the community.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Volunteer benefits include: meet new people, build resume, learn new skills, give
back to others, explore a career or get to know the community.
POC /Phone /Email: LaDonna Spivey /Volunteer Coordinator /[email protected]
Who: Airmen Against Drunk Driving (AADD) ~ Dispatch and Drivers
What: Volunteers in AADD have two primary roles: the driver and the dispatcher
When: All Shifts
Where: Local Area /Hurlburt Field
How: The driver is responsible for going to the caller's location and taking them back to the caller's
dorm or home. The dispatcher is responsible for answering their phone and assigning a
driver to pick up a caller. First, the caller calls 884-8844. Command Post answers the phone and
sends the call to the dispatcher's personal phone number. The dispatcher is the first-line operator
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
for the program, thus they are perhaps the most important volunteer in a shift. If a dispatcher
doesn't pick up their phone, there is no AADD. Once a driver has completed a return, they will call
the dispatcher who will then log the completed call.
Why: The intent of the AADD program is to provide Hurlburt Field community members another
alternative for getting home alive after consuming alcohol. Prevents DUI’s and saves lives for the
individual and the community.
Number of Volunteers: 7 males/3 females every shift
Good to Know: Males may never ride alone with females, and vice versa.
Phone/Email: [email protected]) or [email protected]
/[email protected] /884-8844.
Who: Computer Techs at Air Force Enlisted Village ~ IT Help
What: Computer Technician /Geek Squad
When: One Saturday a month 9:00am-1:00pm *Weekday opportunities available also
Where: AF Enlisted Villages: Teresa Village, 321 Woodrow Street, Ft Walton Beach, Bob Hope
Village, 30 Holly Avenue, Shalimar and the Eglin Fisher House, across from the Eglin Hospital.
How: Use skills in computer maintenance/geek skills for fixing AF Enlisted Village resident’s
computers on Saturdays. Tasks may include: fixing computers, software and hardware for AF
Enlisted Village residents.
Why: The iFalcon computer support team is an all-volunteer group of IT folks with a common goal,
to provide FREE IT support to the residents of the Air Force Enlisted Village, particularly at Teresa
Village. The village is continually seeking experienced & dedicated professionals with a range of IT
skills.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: This group typically deals with the same type of issues one might see in their
home/work environment.
POC /Phone /Email: MSgt Tommy Brown /[email protected]
Who: Air Force Enlisted Village ~ Ipad Class Assistant
What: Hawthorn House Ipad (Catie) Class Helper
When: On-going /weekly every Thursday at 3:00pm
Where: Hawthorn House /1200 Hawthorn House Drive
How: The enlisted village is teaching the residents how to use Ipads that have been installed
throughout the building. They have apps specific to the residents’ needs, for example, maintenance
requests, activities, email and menus. Volunteers will assist with hands on instruction of residents.
IT knowledge, specifically Apple Ipad helpful.
Why: The Air Force Enlisted Village provides a home for widowed/retired seniors of those that
have served. Their mission is to provide comfortable homes to both Air Force Enlisted Widows and
Retired Air Force Couples.
Number of Volunteers: 2-4 per class
Good to Know: Find more info about Hawthorn house at afev.us. These are seniors with physical
limitations & disabilities, so must have respect for the elderly and PATIENCE!
POC/Phone/Email: Theresa Brooks /850 609-2550 /[email protected]
Who: Air Force Enlisted Village ~ Senior Companion
What: Senior Companion (someone to spend 1-on-1 time with a resident for friendship & bonding).
When (dates /time): On-going /as volunteer is available
Where (address): Hawthorne House /1200 Hawthorn House Drive /Shalimar
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
How (duties): With this program the volunteer is matched with an elderly person at the Air Force
Enlisted village who needs companionship and sometimes assistance with normal everyday tasks.
The volunteer can help with entertaining and helping their Senior Companion with things such as
computer games, discussing books, playing cards, or even hanging a picture, or organizing their
room. A Senior Companion can do as little as keeping a senior company for 30 minutes. This gives
the individual you are helping solace knowing there is someone who cares and is willing to put in
the extra effort for them. It does not take much to show someone you care, but your little effort can
go a long way in making them feel needed and wanted.
Why (do it): The Air Force Enlisted Village provides a home for widowed/retired seniors of those
that have served. Their mission is to provide comfortable homes to both Air Force Enlisted Widows
and Retired Air Force Couples.
Number of Volunteers (needed): 1 volunteer per resident
Good to Know: Find more info about Hawthorne house at afev.us. These are seniors with physical
limitations & disabilities, so must have respect for the elderly and PATIENCE!
POC/Phone/Email: Theresa Brooks /850 609-2550 /[email protected]
Who: American Cancer Society ~ Office Help
What: Office Helpers
When: Mon through Friday /8:00am-4:00pm
Where: American Cancer Society/99 Eglin Pkwy NE Suite 37/Fort Walton
How: The volunteers can help to answer phones, take messages, help patients in the “gift Closet”
(fitting bras and prosthesis), help with outgoing mail, provide office coverage, create flyers,
postcards and power points and more as needed.
Why: The American Cancer Society is a non-profit helping local cancer patients enjoy a higher
quality of life!
Number of Volunteers: 3-6 volunteers per week
Good to Know: Seeking all help but computer savvy people are desperately needed.
POC /Phone/Email: Nikki Willingham /244-3813/[email protected]
Who: Shelter House ~ Help Move or Organize Donation Items /Mass Mailings
What: Truck/Transportation Team Leads or Volunteers
When: Various – can work with your schedule
Where: Shelter House Admin Office /102 Buck Drive /Fort Walton
How: The Shelter accepts donated household items to furnish apartments.
Drivers: Need volunteers to pick up and deliver furniture and household goods to and from
storage. Need Team Captains to schedule pick up and drop off times and help recruit other
volunteers to the team. Also need anyone with a truck/trailer who can help move furniture,
equipment, supplies, etc. If you don’t have a truck, you can provide muscle!
Donations: Sort and organize donations by category. Date all food items. Put items away.
Mailing: It’s an ongoing process M-F 9-5 pm. A group of 10 volunteers for about 4 hours would be
a great help, but individuals are welcome to come too.
Why: Shelter House is the only state certified Domestic Violence Center in Okaloosa and Walton
Counties. Shelter House provides safe shelter, a 24/7 domestic violence crisis hotline, counseling,
emotional support, transitional housing and legal advocacy for domestic violence survivors and
their children.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Most victims of domestic violence that return to abuse list finances as the reason
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
they return. Shelter House provides support for families leaving shelter and starting anew. By
helping with the truck team, you will directly make a difference in the lives of women and children
in our community.
POC /Phone /Email: 243-1201 /[email protected]
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Hurlburt Field Natural Resources ~ Nature Trail Caretaker
What: Grace Brown Nature Trail Caretaker
When: Twice a month, flexible per volunteer schedule
Where: Hurlburt Field /Grace Brown Nature Trail, Hurlburt Field Soundside, trailhead on south
lawn of Soundside Club
How: Perform routine maintenance landscaping to Grace Brown Nature Trail such as weed eating,
pruning, sweeping or blowing off decks/boardwalks, id and report damage that needs carpentry
repair.
Why: This regular event will maintain a safe, beautiful and inviting recreational and educational
venue supporting retired and active duty military personnel and families.
Number of Volunteers: 2-8
Good to Know: 24-48 hours advanced notice is required in order for 1 SOCES/CEAN to request
equipment, i.e., weed eaters, pruners, etc. from Heavy Equipment shop. Volunteers will need to pick
up equipment at Bldg. 90053 and receive additional instructions for work.
POC/Phone/Email: Kristal Walsh, Natural-Cultural Resources Manager /1 SOCES/CEAN
415 Independence Rd., Bldg. 9005, Hurlburt Field, FL 32544 /850-884-7916
/[email protected]
Who: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida ~ Mentor
What: Mentors for kids ages 6-12
When: On-Going
Where: Fun and educational activities around town.
How: Option #1: School-Based Mentoring
In this mentoring relationship, volunteers meet with their Little Brother or Sister one hour every
week at Edwin’s Elementary, during school hours only.
In addition to the mentoring relationship, sometime will be spent each week on a subject that the
Little needs some extra help with, such as reading.
Many volunteers visit during their lunch hour. Keep in mind that school hours are around 8:30 a.m.
- 3:00 p.m. and all of your visits will occur within these hours. Check with your employer as some
businesses allow their staff time off to mentor. The school-based program at Edwin’s is a great way
to enter the mentoring relationship and then transition to community outings once you have gotten
to know each other.
Option #2: Community Based Mentoring
This one-to-one mentoring option allows you the opportunity to pick up your Little Brother or
Little Sister at the child's home, do some educational activities and spend time in the community.
Outings can range from going for a walk, working on arts & crafts, taking a bike ride, or watching a
movie.
Remember, it's not the money you spend but the time spent doing activities together. The
Community Based Mentoring Option is great if you would like to spend time with your Little on
afternoons or weekends.
Why: Big Brothers Big Sisters offers children individualized time and attention on a consistent
basis from an extra caring adult in their lives.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Big Brothers Big Sisters provides full-time staff to support their mentors and their
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
relationships with their Little Brother or Little Sister.
POC/Phone/Email: Stephanie Trigg /850-664-5437 /[email protected]
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Navarre High School ~ Navarre High Commando Tutors Program
What: “Commando Tutors”
When: Tutoring will take place on campus Monday through Friday. Tutoring hours are: 8:00 a.m.
to 8:45 a.m.; Tutors are asked to help a minimum of one time a week for approximately 45 minutes.
Where: Navarre High School /8600 High School Blvd /Navarre, FL
How: The “Commando Tutor” will spend approximately 45 minutes helping a student improve
competency and performance in a specific subject and will meet the student in the designated
Tutoring classroom. The student will bring the needed text and other study materials sent by the
teacher for the tutoring session. The “Commando Tutor” will determine, with the student, how
many meetings are needed to achieve the targeted improvements.
Number of Volunteers: Ten to Twenty “Commando Tutors”
Good to Know: Students requesting tutors will be motivated and appreciative. Each “Commando
Tutor” will be asked to complete the Navarre High Volunteer Application Form and present a valid
driver’s license.
POC /Phone/Email: Brian Noack, Principal /936-6080
Who: Choctaw and FWB High School ~ Tutor ELL (Spanish) Students in Math
What: Bilingual (Spanish) High School Math Tutor
When: Once per week for up to 1 hour during the school day or immediately after school
Where: Fort Walton Beach High School/400 Hollywood Blvd/Ft. Walton OR
Choctawhatchee High School/110 Racetrack Road /Ft. Walton
How: Volunteers need to be bilingual (Spanish) to help Spanish students with HS math tutoring in
Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. Volunteers will help ELL students to progress in math
understanding and to be able to pass EOCs (End of Course Exams) and FCAT. Passing these tests
are required for graduation.
Why: While English Language Learners (ELL) receives assistance in learning English, there is a
need for math assistance as well, especially in interpreting concepts and word problems.
Number of Volunteers: At least 4 (2 who could split weeks at each high school)
Good to Know: Volunteering can be split between multiple volunteers.
POC /Phone /Email: Lois Handzo /850) 833-5861 /[email protected]
Who: Hurlburt Field CLEP Prep Program ~ Tutors
What: Tutors /Teachers /Professors
When: Mondays from 11:30am-1:00pm and/or various times by appt.
Where: Hurlburt Field Library, Conference Room
How: The CLEP Prep Program is a refresher course for students. Volunteers will act as
tutors/teachers; volunteer will be teaching or co-teaching a course designed to improve the
likelihood that the students will go on to pass their CLEP test.
Why: The CLEP Prep Program is composed of Airmen who wish to use their knowledge to refresh
the memories of airmen wanting to take a CLEP test.
Number of Volunteers: Unlimited, the more the better!
Good to Know: Volunteers will not necessarily have to teach on a regular schedule; the more
volunteers, the more flexible schedules can be.
POC /Phone /Email: [email protected]
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Emerald Coast Hospice ~ Patient Companion
What: Patient companionship, caregiver relief, clerical assistance
When: ongoing – flexible days/times upon your availability
Where: Sandestin, Destin, FWB, Shalimar, Mary Esther, portions of Navarre
How: Volunteers may provide companionship by visiting & sharing stories with patient, provide
socialization by reading to, watching TV with, playing games/cards, listening to music, etc.
Volunteers may provide relief so caregiver can run errands, attend doctor appointments, etc.
Volunteers may assist with LIGHT household chores, LIGHT meal preparation or run errands for
patient. Volunteers may also assist with administrative/clerical duties in office such as: filing,
answering phones, assembling packets, mail outs, etc.
Why: Volunteers in hospice find it personally gratifying, and emotionally meaningful to assist
patients with life-limiting illnesses that allows them to live out their days as fully and as
comfortable as possible. Volunteers help ensure that every moment matters in the lives of the
patients.
Number of Volunteers: as many as possible
Good to Know: Volunteers DO NOT provide “hands-on” care or administer medication to patients.
Volunteers will be asked to complete application process & background check. All our volunteers
receive training to help them feel comfortable with their assigned tasks. Even the smallest act of
compassion can have a large impact.
POC /Phone /Email: Lisa Secondine/862-1069/[email protected]
Who: Regency Hospice Volunteer Program ~ Veteran “Hospice for Heroes”
What: Hospice for Heroes Volunteer
When: Whenever volunteers are available, volunteers make visits to patients and help with events.
Ask that volunteers make a commitment to at least 4 hours a month.
Where: Regency Hospice 11 Racetrack Rd Suite G /Fort Walton Beach
How: Regency Hospice has many veteran patients and we ask you to help us show our veterans that
they are special people and we appreciate all that they gave to our country. Help with honoring our
veteran patients with "Hospice for Heroes Pinning" and thanking them for their service to our
country. We ask that you consider volunteering with Regency Hospice to brighten the day of your
patients and their families.
Why: Their Mission Statement is to honor life and offer compassion to individuals and their
families when facing a life-limiting illness.
Good to Know: Volunteers will receive training to be educated on their duties.
Number of Volunteers: “We never have too many volunteers”.
POC /Phone /Email: Debra Owens /[email protected] /[email protected]
/1-850-226-4166
Who: Red Cross ~ General Office Help
What: Office/Administrative Help
When: On-going /4-6 hours per week
Where: Eglin AFB Office
How: Duties vary depending upon available projects. Such as: Bulk mailings, Word processing,
data entry on spreadsheets, stamping, labeling brochures, general office maintenance, filing,
cleaning, and organizing storage areas, shredding, making comfort kits for deploying troops,
manning the Hurlburt or Eglin Emergency Family Assistance Control Center upon activation,
service to Armed Forces Case Management, and other miscellaneous duties.
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
Why: You would help your local Red Cross with mission accomplishment.
Number of Volunteers: 1-2
Good to Know: You will receive orientation to the American Red Cross, introduction to SAF
casework, SAF Case Management System – SAF Agent, SAF Case Management System – SAF Self
Service, and other Air Force training as required to work the Emergency Family Assistance Control
Center. Some tasks may require knowledge of Word or Excel, or other computer skills.
POC /Phone /Email: LaDonna Spivey /Volunteer Coordinator /[email protected]
Who: Hurlburt Legal Office ~ Administrative Help
What: Answer phones at front desk
When: ASAP, At Volunteers discretion: M: 0800-1000, and 1200-1600; T: 1100-1600, W: 08001400, TH: 0800-1100, and 1300-1600, Fri: 1100-1600
Where: 212 Lukasik Ave, Suite 255, Hurlburt Field
How: Legal is undermanned and in the need of assistance with answering the phone. Volunteer
would be responsible for answering the main legal office line.
Why: Hurlburt Legal provides legal assistance support in the form of Power of Attorneys, Notary
Services and Wills. This office can also provide basis legal assistance.
Number of Volunteers: 1 daily
Good to Know: Need people the know how to handle customer service.
POC/Phone/Email: MSgt Kimberly N. Smith /884-7822 /[email protected]
Who: Hurlburt Youth Center ~ Fit Factor
What: Fit Factor Program “Coaches”
When: EVERY Mon (4-5), Tuesday (4-5), Thu (3-4)
Where: Hurlburt Field Youth Center /117 McMillan Street /Bldg 90304
How: Fit Factor/ Fit Family is an Air Force wide program that promotes a healthy and Fit Life
Style. This is open for youth and adults. The volunteers will be participating in the get fit program
with the youth. Activities include sports, physical endurance, rock climbing, skating, etc.
Why: The Youth Center is trying to encourage our youth to participate and the youth are more
likely to participate when the adults get involved.
Number of Volunteers: unlimited
Good to Know: Youth staff will help assist with the practices if needed.
POC/Phone/Email: Ashley Raymond /884-6355 /[email protected]
Who: Pyramid of Fort Walton Beach ~ Various Opportunities
What: Anything from handy work at facility-- to working with special needs adults on arts, music,
crafts, theatrical events, and more
When: Anytime, Monday through Friday 8:00am-3:00pm
Where: 432 Green Acres Road /Fort Walton Beach
How: Help with rebuilding storage shed, constructing theatrical props, mentoring
students…whatever you can do to help.
Why: Pyramid Fort Walton Beach is a non-profit program that provides daily living skills and
independence instruction to nearly 100 Emerald Coast adults with disabilities. Its arts program is
unique in the country and has produced exciting life changes for students.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Any and all volunteers welcome – no prerequisites
POC /Phone /Email: Laurie Hoffman /862-7139 /[email protected]
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Community Commando Volunteer Newsletter
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge ~ Various
What: Various (Animal Care, Facility Maintenance, Landscaping and ground maintenance, Animal
Rescue, Docents for school programs, Kids Camps, or community events)
When: On-Going; as volunteers are available
Where: Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Center, 105 Santa Rosa Blvd, Ft Walton Beach OR
Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Zoo, 5262 Deer Springs Drive, Crestview
How: Volunteers are necessary to assist in the day-to-day operations of the animal hospital/refuge
allowing the staff to concentrate on the critical care of the patients. Volunteers can prepare animal diets,
clean cages and dishes; do laundry, general facility cleanup and maintenance. Volunteers can be
involved on many different levels and may graduate to perform animal pickups and rescues.
Why: The ECWR ZOO is a sanctuary for unwanted domestic, exotic and wild animals, many of which are
threatened or endangered. We provide a pleasant atmosphere to enjoy these animals in natural exhibits
and strive to educate the public on the importance of each species in their respective eco-systems. The
ECWR CENTER rescues, rehabilitates, and releases approximately 2000 sick, injured and orphaned wild
animals yearly, including dolphins, whales and sea turtles.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible. Must be 16 years of age.
Good to Know: There are inherent dangers with working with wild animals. Training on how to
properly handle them will be provided. Compassion and a love of animals is a must.
There are inherent dangers with working with both wild and domesticated animals. Work is mostly
outside in the elements regardless of the weather.
POC /Phone /Email: Susan Leveille /850-650-1880 /[email protected]
Who: Seacrest Wolf Preserve ~ Fencing Repairs and Various Projects
What: Fencing Helpers
When: First and third Saturdays of each month /beginning at 9:30am
Where: Seacrest Wolf Preserve /3449 Bonnett Pond Road /Chipley
How: Help rebuild fencing which provides a safe, humane habitat for the wolves while protecting
the visitors on field trips and tours to learning about this important keystone species.
Why: Seacrest Wolf Preserve is a nonprofit organization providing safe, humane habitat for
displaced captive wolves and wolf/dogs. The fencing needs of the preserve have increased
considerably this last year. Seacrest is completely run by volunteers.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible-- Individuals or Groups
Good to Know: Bottled water and cold beverages available during weekdays and a Bi-monthly
workday potluck lunch is provided. Snacks and sandwiches provided for groups. These wolves are
beautiful creatures and you will be able to interact with them. One of the wolves, Legend, is a local
celebrity--he was a co-star in the movie “Evan Almighty”!
POC /Phone/Email: Wayne Watkins /850-773-2897 or /[email protected]
/check out their website!!! www.seacrestwolfpreserve.org
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