November is Month of the Military Family

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Kerry Bartlett
  • 934th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Minneapolis-St. Paul --  Off the beaten path of Military Highway is the inconspicuous entrance to an office of humble structure and decor. Ironically, the building that once was a house, is now home to the Airman and Family Readiness Center - the hub that serves the military family with countless services and resources. Some are amazing. Many are free. All are valuable.
The 934th AW family of the has lost three members in recent months. Although there is no indication that their deaths had anything to do with the military, bringing services and resources to the forefront may be the key to prevention, says Vicki Lokken, director, 934th AFRC. 

"One in 25 seeks professional help, the other 24 seek help from peers. We're here to educate those 24," she said. 

Every issue of the Viking Flyer has a four-page insert from the 934th AFRC. Within those four pages are only a few of the many services and resources available.
Here are a few more: 

Counselors: The AFRC has two licensed, accredited personal life counselors each UTA available Friday, Saturday and Sunday through January, then quarterly thereafter. Counselors are non-military and information is strictly confidential. The service is free and not insurance related. 

Military One Source (www.MilitaryOneSource.com or 1-800-342-9647): Master's-level consultants are available to offer confidential support and practical solutions. This site provides free articles, CD's, booklets, financial calculators to help with budgeting and investing. Twelve face-to-face sessions per personal/family issue are provided. In other words, this service can be used more than once. There is no cost, no insurance and no report to the military. 

Miracle Lodge (www.miraclelodge.com): The Miracle Lodge is a faith-based, privately owned retreat, located near Rochester, Minn., geared for vets. Rooms are sponsored by a person, family or business.
The bottom line is that there are tons of services and resources available to military members and families for every type of need. A good wingman is the catalyst that links the need with the solution.