Vance’s 2010 AFAF campaign kicks off

  • Published
  • By Joe B. Wiles
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  "The Air Force Assistance Fund depends on each one of us for support and is one of the best examples of Air Force people taking care of their own," said Col. Chris Nowland, the 71st Flying Training Wing commander, during Vance's 2010 AFAF campaign kickoff luncheon Feb. 8.

The luncheon was held at noon in the Airman & Family Readiness Center and was sponsored by the Air Force Aid Society, one of the four components that make up the AFAF. Vance's 2010 campaign will run through March 19.

"Our primary objective for this year's campaign is 100 percent contact with eligible contributors and at least 50 percent participation," said Capt. Kevin Seay, the base AFAF point of contact.

The money raised for AFAF is used to provide Airmen and their families emergency assistance loans, education grants and aid for families of deployed members. In 2009, Vance Airmen received more than $49,000 in AFAF benefits.

There are four parts to the AFAF: The Air Force Aid Society, the Air Force Enlisted Village, the Air Force Village and the LeMay Foundation.

The AFAS provides emergency assistance to Airmen and their families, and sponsor educational and proactive community programs to improve their quality of life.

The Enlisted Village provides temporary housing for surviving spouses of enlisted members who die on active duty and permanent homes for the surviving spouses of retired enlisted Airmen. More than 1,500 surviving spouses have lived at the Enlisted Village since 1975.

The Air Force Village provides care for retired Air Force officer widows who need financial assistance.

The LeMay Foundation, founded by Air Force Gen. and Mrs. Curtis LeMay, awards grants to enlisted and officer retirees and their spouses.

"When we make our monetary goal and at least 50 percent participation, AFAF will give Vance a check for $2,500," said Captain Seay. During the 2009 campaign Vance met both criteria and received a check. The money was used for the 2009 Fall Fest and Air Force Family Week celebration, he said.

Capt. Jim Scyocurka is assisting Captain Seay with the 2010 AFAF campaign. For more information on the campaign and how to donate to AFAF, contact Captain Seay, 213-6510, Captain Scyocurka, 213-6257, or any of the key workers.

The group contacts are: Capt. Darwyn Klatt, 71st Operations Group; Master Sgt. Steven Reddecliff, 71st Mission Support Group; Staff Sgt. Tiesha Benson, 71st Medical Group; and Master Sgt. William Howell, 71st Flying Training Wing Staff Agencies.