Single Airman Initiative reconnecting Airmen with base services

  • Published
  • By Christopher Bailey
  • Nucleus staff writer
KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. --  The Single Airman Initiative has gained popularity since its inception in October 2011.

The Air Force-wide program is designed to reconnect Airmen with certain services an Air Force base provides.

"It's geared toward the single Airman, but it is open to the whole base populace," said Joni Van Meir, director of Outdoor Recreation and co-director of the Single Airmen Initiative. "It tries to provide free or low-cost programs, classes and equipment, so that they can get reconnected to Force Support."

The initiative started with a survey given of Airmen on their knowledge and involvement in such on-base services, as Outdoor Recreation and the Arts and Crafts Center.

"It was discovered that there was a real disconnect between Airmen and the base they are on," Van Meir said. "We've had retirees from Kirtland come to us saying they wished Outdoor Recreation was available to them when they were here. It was available, but didn't know about us."

Van Meir said the SAI provides additional support. She gave the example of a plan to install wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) at Outdoor Recreation, the Mountain View Club, the Tijeras Arroyo Golf Course, the Arts and Crafts Center and the Bowling Center.

"This is one way for Airmen to reconnect with these places," Van Meir said. "Many of them are taking online courses, and having Wi-Fi available at those places gives them an opportunity to visit, do their homework and learn more about what these places have to offer."

The initiative works with all Force Support Squadron services in providing activities from hiking and kayaking trips to wine tours, arts and crafts classes and golf lessons.

Van Meir said the SAI just completed its initial five-month run and new programs are planned for its second run, scheduled to begin later this month.

"A lot of programs and classes have seen increased attendance because of what we are doing," Van Meir said. "We have developed a good foundation for the program and are looking forward to making it grow. We are committed to re-establishing the connection between the Airman and the base."

For more information about the Single Airman Initiative, visit www.kirtlandforcesupport.com.