Vance Airmen mentor students in area schools

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Alexios Gavrilos
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE , Okla. --  For the last two years, Airmen from Vance Air Force Base have been volunteering in the Waukomis, Chisholm, and Enid School Districts, doing everything from proctoring tests and chaperoning field trips to mentoring students directly.

The program is called Airmen Boosting Learning in Enid - or ABLE.

According to Jamie Crowell, School Liaison officer and project coordinator with the Airman & Family Readiness Center, "The original purpose of the program was to provide an opportunity for Airmen to get actively involved in the local community." It has grown into much more than that.

Squadrons are permanently assigned to specific schools for the sake of continuity, which not only creates a rapport and lasting relationship, but increases the level of interest the Airmen hold in their respective projects.

The 71st Security Forces Squadron is involved in the physical education program, where members coach and work with students to promote fitness and health. They also hold flag raising ceremonies to instill national pride and patriotism in the students.

The 71st Communications Squadron participates in a chess club, teaching not only a classic board game, but strategic thinking, basic gamesmanship and social skills.

Student pilots volunteer primarily as mentors to high school students, helping to motivate these soon-to-be adults to think about what they plan to do after high school.

"We're thrilled to have the presence of Vance Airmen in the halls," said Beth Culver, a fourth-grade teacher at Taft Elementary. "They're helping out the kids and setting an example of service and volunteerism."

Airmen are also able to participate individually when their schedules allow.

For example, 1st Lt. Dan Venable, director of operations with the 71st Operations Support Squadron Airfield Operations, works as a crossing guard for young students walking to class in the mornings.

"I just want to give back. I love being involved with the community and volunteering my time," said Venable.

Before participating, prospective volunteers are required to fill out an application and submit to a background check.

Airmen who volunteer their time receive something in return. They gain a greater appreciation for how hard teachers work to make a difference in their students' lives.

The interaction between Airmen and teachers has fostered a better mutual understanding of the two completely different worlds, and has created feelings of great respect for both.

"It's a win-win for everyone," said Crowell.

Each month, the participating squadrons tally up their ABLE volunteer time and the squadron with the most hours takes possession of "The Roaming Buffalo" trophy and earns bragging rights.

Vance Airmen volunteered for 787 hours in local schools last year. The goal this year is 1,000 hours.

For more information and to volunteer for ABLE, contact Crowell at 580-213-6285.