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Key Spouse program helps commanders connect with families

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Joshua Eikren
  • 375th Air Mobility Public Affairs Office
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  The Air Force's Key Spouse program is an official organization and family program designed to enhance readiness and establish a sense of Air Force community.

This program offers informal peer-to-peer and Wingman support to families with three basic responsibilities: welcoming newcomers, sharing information and resources, and maintaining contact with deployed families.

"The program builds a sense of community and resilience among military families through partnerships between unit leadership, Key Spouses and other community groups," said Deb Teague, 375th Force Support Squadron community readiness specialist.

The Key Spouse Team is traditionally comprised of commanders, first sergeants, key spouses mentors, Key Spouses, and the Airman and Family Readiness Center. Key Spouses and mentors are volunteers, appointed by the commander, who are trained by the A&FRC.

"A strong Key Spouse community helps facilitate family readiness; Key Spouses identify and resolve issues early, before they escalate into major problems," Teague said.

Sol Green, a Key Spouse member and 375th AMW 2015 Spouse of the Year, said, "The program provides a great platform to share information about base events, programs for deployed families and pertinent information regarding activities within the surrounding area."

Key Spouse meetings are held at the A&FRC to continue education and share information with the spouses.

"Being in touch with your Key Spouse can create a link for information from leadership to your family," said Green. "Key Spouses are the 'lifeline' between your leadership and unit to the family."

Recently, the program changed to include greater involvement by commanders and first sergeants and required refresher training with each PCS.

The curriculum now includes modules on Exceptional Family Member Program, Disaster Preparedness, the Emergency Family Assistance Center, social media, and generational considerations.

Teague said, "A strong Key Spouse program enables the commander to build on the strengths of unit families through connections to support, accurate information, resources and programs and services."

The Key Spouses program looks to bring a sense of Air Force community by reaching out and getting families connected with each other and their units.

Green added, "Just like there is a 'Wingman' support system for servicemen and women, the Key Spouse program provides that same care for families and loved ones. Our Key Spouses are incredible leaders."