Base selected to test spouse support program

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Wayne Ojala
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing, Airman and Family Readiness Center
GRAND FORKS AFB, N.D. --  “The Phoenix has landed.” 

Air Mobility Command recently selected Grand Forks Air Force Base as one of three test bases for the new Phoenix Spouse program. AMC’s newest initiative will standardize Spouse Link/Key Spouse programs across the command.

The initial test-phase runs from May through June with a command-wide roll out planned for early August. 

According to AMC officials, the base was selected because of its robust SpouseLink program, which boasts more than 42 participants and is widely recognized as an AMC benchmark program. 

The Phoenix Spouse program provides a supportive network that informally links spouses with unit leadership and the Airman and Family Readiness Center to enhance individual, family and unit readiness. 

The program also closes the gap in Spouse Link/Key Spouse services currently being offered across the command. 

Phoenix Spouse volunteers are appointed by unit commanders and are trained by the Airman and Family Readiness Center. 

These spouses provide peer-to-peer support, information and referral and out-reach to family members within their units. The spouses also keep families connected and informed, especially during deployments and remote assignments. 

Finally, the Phoenix Spouses welcome new families arriving to their unit and provide critical feedback on the morale and welfare of their unit to leadership. 

Assisting the Phoenix Spouse is a team comprised of the unit commander, first sergeant, Phoenix Spouse advisor and the Airman and Family Readiness Center. The unit commander establishes the program within his unit and provides the overall direction for the Phoenix Spouse. The first sergeant is the day-to-day point of contact for the Phoenix Spouse for questions and guidance. The first sergeant also provides unit rosters and assists with Phoenix Spouse recruitment. 

The Phoenix Spouse Advisor is a commander, first sergeant or leadership spouse and can provide invaluable access to unit leadership. 

The Airman and Family Readiness Center facilitates training, provides information and referral support, and is the focal point for deployment, sustainment and reintegration services. 

All 42 former Spouse Link/Key Spouse volunteers were grandfathered into the new Phoenix Spouse program as either Phoenix Spouses or Phoenix Advisors.
“It was very important for us to recognize the contributions of our former SpouseLinks/Key Spouses by allowing them the opportunity to move forward with the new Phoenix Spouse program,” said Tech Sgt. Karlyn Beadles, family readiness NCO.