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Supportive Offices Move to better Service

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Tabatha Zarrella
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  A recognition ceremony was held at the Airman and Family Readiness Center and Mission Support Group building to thank 14 Airmen who helped move the American Red Cross and Retiree Activities offices to their new locations, March 20.

"Our move to the A&FRC will give us an opportunity to grow our volunteer program to increase the number of military caseworkers and specifically volunteers in the support of the 20th Medical Group," said Nancy Cataldo, service to armed forces and international services officer.

The offices moved to provide the opportunity for each office to grow and their volunteer programs to increase numbers of military caseworkers and volunteers who support the 20th MDG as well as retirees.

"Our new location is in the 20th MSG building. We [RAO] are the liaison between retirees and active duty members," said Ed Haldeman, RAO director. "Part of our vision statement is: remind the retiree community that their service is not forgotten and that we remain dedicated and serve them and their families."

Both the RAO and the American Red Cross provide Team Shaw the supplemental tools needed for retirees that serve in the local area, as well as provide Airmen and soldiers with a liaison for emergencies or donors. The new locations will also help each office to be closer to the helping agencies they partner with on a daily basis.

"The mission statement of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors," Cataldo said. "It's a great opportunity for us to say thank you to folks who volunteered and it wasn't easy work. We just want to show our appreciation for their hard work."

Both offices seek help from volunteers and appreciate the help they provide.

"I have a history with the Red Cross and I like helping people," said Airman Christina Steel, 20th Force Support Squadron evaluation technician. "Helping move the offices gave me a chance not only to give back, but meet new people and work as a team to get the office moved."

"We're always looking for retirees to help volunteer with the RAO, and we greatly appreciate their help," Haldeman said.

For more information please call American Red Cross at 895-1251 or Retirees Activities Office at 895-1098/8421.