Airman and Family Readiness reaches out to wing through open house event

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio -- The 178th Fighter Wing Airman and Family Readiness hosted an event at Springfield Air National Guard Base, Nov. 3, to inform Airmen about many resources available to assist them and their families.

Jane Esprit, AFRP manager, organized the event after reaching out to Airman and learning many didn't know about existing resources.

"We are a one stop shop for all your needs," said Esprit. "If there is something we can't help you with we can put you with someone who can."

Brig. Gen. Mark Bartman, Assistant Adjutant General for Air and commander, Ohio Air National Guard, was one of the many participants to go through the event.

"Jane did an incredible job of putting together these resources," said Bartman."This is really a great thing. There are so many organizations looking to help our military members. Airmen need to make sure they take the initiative to look for these programs."

To promote participation, Airmen were given a card to be stamped by 14 separate stations. Each station provided them with information about their available services. Once their cards were completed, they could turn them in for a drawing to win a $25 gas card.

Benefits and opportunities regarding education, employment, finance, family support, health and insurance were just some of the information provided for participants.

"A lot of people have been vastly interested in our material," said Michele Gire from Military One Source, one of many exhibitors. "It was obvious they were not just trying to just get a stamp."

Participants had positive things to say after completing the event.

"This was excellent," said Senior Airman Joshua Curtis from the Command Post. "I learned about a lot of resources I didn't know were available. It opened doors."

Esprit says this event will be held annually in October to ensure Airmen stay informed about helpful programs. However, she encourages Airmen to stop by the AFRP located in Building 122 to learn more about what they can do to help members. AFRP can be reached at 937-525-2583.