Team Schriever continues to build community bonds

SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The Air Force emphasizes being active in the local community is an inherent part of being an exceptional and well-rounded Airman.

Even though Airmen give back to the local community on a year-round basis, we recognize April as National Volunteer Month and April 15-21 as National Volunteer Week.

“National Volunteer was created by Points of Light, an organization dedicated to engage more people in solving social problems through voluntary service. This time is an opportunity to recognize and thank volunteers who lend their time, talent, voice and support to causes they care about in their community,” said Ruth Moore, community readiness consultant and volunteer coordinator with the 50th Force Support Squadron. “Their stories can serve to inspire others to find ways to take actions that create change.

“During National Volunteer Week, we celebrate the impact of volunteer service and the power of change makers coming together to tackle tough challenges and build stronger, more vibrant communities,” she added.

Senior Airman Alex Reza, response force leader with the 50th Security Forces Squadron and the Schriever Airman’s Council president, is active in the community and makes it a point to encourage others to volunteer.

“Getting out there and encouraging others to volunteer is important because you show that you care about the community and go beyond what most are willing to do,” he said. “It is about being part of something bigger than yourself. I have two daughters and I regularly take them to volunteer events because I want to set an example and show them it’s always a good thing to help others.”

Senior Airman Aleesha Regino, commander’s support staff with the 2nd Space Operations Squadron, has always enjoyed giving back.

“Volunteering is a great experience to share with other Airmen and the people you help,” she said. “It may seem like a small gesture but to them, but it could mean the world. Everyone is so grateful and appreciative of what your service offers. It builds character and empathy, and connects you to people.”

Regino has advice for those who are unsure where to start volunteering.

“If you’re not sure where to volunteer, get in touch with the 50th Force Support Squadron and keep an eye out for the base bulletin,” she said. “If you’re not sure where to sign-up for volunteer events, you can always start your own.”

Moore regularly sends out emails with volunteer opportunities.

“When we receive volunteer opportunities from organizations, I send them out to the groups around Schriever such as the Top 3, 5/6 Council, Airman's Council, and Company Grade Officer Council,” she said. “That way, the volunteer opportunity reaches military members across the base and they can share it with other members of their unit. If the event is tailored towards spouses, I forward it out the Key Spouses.”

The Airman & Family Readiness Center is hosting a Volunteer Expo May 17 in Building 101 from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Local organizations in attendance will include the Care & Share Food Bank, Children's Literacy Center, Colorado Springs Therapeutic Riding Center, Human Society and Leadership Pikes Peak.

“Team Schriever is very active on base and in the local community,” Moore said. “Members and families are making a difference everyday by volunteering. It's that selfless support that makes a lasting impact.”

For more information on volunteer opportunities, contact the A&FRC at 567-3920.