NOTE Director’s
To the Fort Bliss and El Paso community, Wow, how time fly’s when you’re having fun! It’s been 15 months since my arrival, and I can clearly see why “it’s better at Bliss!” In December, we have the Garrison’s annual tree lighting ceremony and Fort Bliss MWR will be there in full support, rumor has it we may have a new tree added to our community!
December is filled with many opportunities to enjoy the holiday season, we will have different options for pictures with Santa, our amazing Marketing team will host the annual letters for Santa and much more. Please keep an eye
out for our fellow brothers and sisters in service. While the holiday season brings great joy and a time to celebrate, many are far away from home. Fort Bliss MWR is here to support, with many great resources, specifically in ACS. Our goal is to improve how we serve the most important customers in the world, please share your ideas, suggestions, feedback with our team, we are here to serve!
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!!
Be Blessed,
MR. MEDINA
915-568-3500
Roberto.j.medina.naf@army.mil
Check in: 830am & 9:30am.
Outdoor Recreation
Marketing Manager
Marlo Brestar
Editor/Writer
Natalie Hinojos-Tomeny
Marketing Assistants
Bethany Lewis
Edward Arriola
Graphic Designer
Raymond Sanchez
Sponsorship & Advertising Executive
Coral Musy
Advertising Sales Associate Brandy Creason
Administrative Support Assistant Martina Grise
BlissNOW is a Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation magazine published bi-monthly for activities on Fort Bliss, Texas. BlissNOW is mailed to all Fort Bliss homes inserted in welcome packets, and distributed to all Family and MWR facilities, along with the Fort Bliss Commissary, Post Exchange at Freedom Crossing, IHG Army Hotels Fort Bliss and the Personnel Processing Center. Circulation: 10,000 bi-monthy The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Army, Department of Defense or federal government. The information in this issue is current at the time of publication; activities and events are subject to change without notice. Downloading of any social media apps is on a voluntary basis. DFMWR is not responsible for any negative consequences resulting in its use. For more information, call the individual facilities. Family and MWR Marketing is located in Building 12 Pershing Road Fort Bliss, TX 79916 and may be reached at 915-568-6741.
one world one voice one magazine one great staff ABOUT THE COVER:
Centennial Banquet & Conference Center holds parties, buffets and large events to fit your every need. Displayed on the cover is their Holiday Brunch, be sure to attend this year and enjoy all the delicious food!
Get your free copy of blissNOW magazine mailed directly to you. Email your name and address to: blissnowmagazine@gmail.com
Photo by Fort Bliss MWR Marketing
LIGH T BEER
EFMP Fall Festival
Friendsgiving Lunch Buffet 11am-2pm | Centennial Club 1 2 & 3 4 9 16 23 21 23 23 23 25-27 27 30
4-6pm | ACS
Kids Day on the Wall
12-6pm | Soldier Activity Center
Bike Maintenance
5-6pm | Soldier Activity Center
Trap Match
9am-2pm | Rod & Gun Club
Anthony Gap Cave Trail
8am-4pm | Franklin Mountains State Park
High Ropes
1-3pm | Soldier Activity Center
Co-Ed Winter Volleyball Registration: November Youth Sports Plex
ONGOING PROGRAMS
15 Days of Holiday Giveaways Nov. 25 until Dec. 13 Online at Facebook.com/blissmwr
Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot
9am-2pm | Underwood Golf Complex
Gobble Wobble Challenge
9-11am | Youth Sports Plex
Turkey Trot 5K 9-10am | Soto PFC
Thanksgiving Camp
8am-1pm | Milam Youth Center (MYC)
Cranksgiving 6-7:30pm | Soto PFC
Wine Tour 11:15am-6pm | Las Cruces, NM
Santa’s Mailbox
Nov. 25 until Dec. 13 Bldg. 12 Pershing Road
EFMP FALL FESTIVAL
Get ready for a night of family fun and games! The New Parent Support Program and the Exceptional Family Member Program are thrilled to host an amazing Fall Festival! The festival will be FRIDAY, NOV. 1, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Army Communtiy Service Ballroom. Open to Families with children ages 0-3 and Families who are enrolled in the EFMP program. Come in your most creative costumes, they are highly encouraged! For more information, call 915-568-9129.
ANTHONY GAP CAVE TRAIL
Enter the world of caving with Outdoor Recreation
SATURDAY, NOV. 16! Enjoy the scenic view of the Franklin Mountains and discover something new. Starting with a 1.3 mile hike, leading to a hidden cave that descends underground. Take a breath and immerse yourself at the Anthony Gap Cave. It is $25 per person to participate and is from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is required and can be done at the Soldier Activity Center. For more information, call 915-744-1532.
FRIENDSGIVING LUNCH BUFFET
Join this fantasitc Friendsgiving buffet! Let’s get together THURSDAY, NOV. 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. The cost will be $16.95 per person. Enjoy a mouthwatering feast featuring Turkey, Ham and all the favorite sides. Indulge in the dessert selections between Pumkin pie with whipped topping and Apple Pie a la’ mode. For more information, call 915-744-8427.
NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS NOVEMBER
THANKSGIVING TURKEY SHOOT
Join Underwood Golf Complex for a gobbling good time, SATURDAY, NOV. 23! This is a four-person scramble from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Entry fee is $75 per person and includes green fees, cart fee, lunch, prizes and a turkey to take home! Registration is required and can be done at the Pro Shop. For more information, call 915-568-1059.
THANKSGIVING CAMP
Join Milam Youth Center (MYC) for their Thanksgiving Camp from MONDAY, NOV. 25 through WEDNESDAY, NOV. 27. Daily activities will be from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., open to youth in grades 6-12. The cost is based on household income. Camp participants must be registered with Child & Youth Services (CYS). For more information, call 915-744-2452.
WINE TOUR
Kick back for the day and let Outdoor Recreation do the work! SATURDAY, NOV. 30 from 11:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. Outdoor Recreation staff will provide transportation as they visit four local wineries near Las Cruces. The cost is $40 per person. This tour is open to ages, 21 and older, space is limited. To reserve your spot, call 915-744-1532.
MILAM & REPLICA YOUTH CENTER VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY FOR GRADES 6 TO 12
Saturday, December 14 • 9:30am-12pm
Fort Bliss National Cemetery • 5200 Fred Wilson Ave. CYS Registration is Required • Info: 915-744-2449
Honor the memory of local military members with a wreath-laying ceremony at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.
Zumba under the Stars
6-7:30pm | Soto PFC
Tree Lighting Celebration
5-8pm | Center Chapel One
Jingle Dash
9-11am | Smith-Bliss Field
Kids Day on the Wall
12-6pm | Soldier Activity Center
Breakfast with Santa 8:30-10am & 10:30am-12pm | Rod & Gun Club
Bikes & Brews
8am-2pm | Chuck Heinrich Park 5 6 7 7 & 8 8 & 15 14 14 14 14 15 21 28
Christmas Golf Sale
8am-4pm | Underwood Golf Complex
Wreaths Across America
9:30am-12pm | Fort Bliss National Cemetery
Army vs. Navy Game Watch Party 11am-5pm | Centennial Pub
Holiday Brunch
10am-1pm | Centennial Club
SKIES Winter Dance Recital
2-4:30pm | Stayton Theater
New Year’s Eve Bingo
Doors open at 4:30pm | Centennial Club
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Kids Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
Happening now through Dec. 14: 10am-7pm
Soldier Activity Center
Co-Ed Winter Basketball Jamboree
Registration: December // Season: January
Youth Sports Plex
SKIES: Lightsaber Classes
Saturdays: 9-10am Salle De Long Fencing Center
SKIES: Taekwondo Classes
Mondays & Wednesdays: 4:00 - 4:50pm Youth Sports Plex
15 Days of Holiday Giveaways
Nov. 25 until Dec. 13
Online at Facebook.com/blissmwr Santa’s Mailbox Nov. 25 until Dec. 13 Bldg. 12 Pershing Road
DECEMBER
TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION
Come out to a festive holiday event FRIDAY, DEC. 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Center Chapel One, 315 Pershing Road. This is a free event for all to enjoy. There will be a ceremonial tree lighting to kick off the celebration! Drink hot cocoa, play on the real snow slide and more! For more information, call 915-588-8247.
JINGLE DASH
Join Youth Sports in this year’s Jingle Dash 5K/1 Mile race SATURDAY, DEC. 7! Holiday Cheer colors are encouraged! The run will be at Smith-Bliss Field from 9 to 11 a.m. Registrations are required and can be done at the Youth Sports Plex. Cost is $3 for ages 18 and older, free for children 17 and younger and shirts will be sold for $5 each. For more information, call 915-568-2617.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet at the Rod and Gun Club! Take free photos with Santa and children will receive a small gift. Join the holiday fun, SATURDAYS, DEC. 8 and 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The cost is $18.95 for ages 15 and older, $8.95 for children ages 6-14 and children 5 and younger eat free! Reservations are required. To make a reservation, call 915-568-5026.
** Events subject to change without notice. Info: bliss.armymwr.com or facebook.com/blissmwr**
DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS DECEMBER
CHRISTMAS GOLF SALE
The Christmas Ornament sale is the perfect time to take care of that special golfer in your family. Swing by from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., SATURDAY, DEC. 14 and select the merchandise you want to purchase, pick out an ornament and receive the discount inside the ornament, between 15% and 100% discount! For more information, call 915-568-1059.
BIKES & BREWS
Come ride the MTB trails at Chuck Heinrich Park with Outdoor Recreation SATURDAY, DEC. 14 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a variety of routes to choose from, whether you're a beginner or expert, we have you covered. After blazing the trails, Outdoor Rec will stop by a local brewery! Space is limited, open to ages 21 and older. The cost is $35, includes transportation and equipment. Registration is required and can be done by visiting the Soldier Activity Center. For more information, call 915-744-1532.
NEW YEAR’S EVE BINGO
Celebrate with Centennial Banquet and Conference Center for Bingo Bliss! Cheers to the New Year SATURDAY, DEC. 28, with champagne and winnings! Come dressed to impress for a contest with prizes. Open to DOD ID Card Holders and their guests, ages 18 and older. Advance tickets are $75 and $100 at the door the day of the event. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 915-744-8427.
CHEER Bringing every year!
BY MARLO BRESTAR FORT BLISS MWR MARKETING
Holiday time is here and MWR is here to bring you cheer!
We are keeping true to you and will be continuing our Santa letters and 15 days of Holiday Giveaway. Both will begin on Nov. 25 and go through Dec. 13.
SANTA’S MAILBOX
Our magical “Santa’s Mailbox” will appear in front of the MWR Marketing building for you and your kiddos to come drop off your Santa letters. Each child will receive a personalized letter back from the North Pole. Don’t forget to put a return address, Santa and the elves can get a little overwhelmed this time of year. Take pictures and send them to us through the MWR Facebook page, we love to see all the smiles.
HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY
The 15 days of Holiday Giveaway contest occurs every weekday from Monday to Friday. Thanks to our wonderful partners, patrons have the opportunity to win some great gifts to help spread holiday cheer. A question will be posted each weekday on our Facebook page, all answers to the questions can be found on our web page bliss.armymwr.com or one of our partners pages.
Rules and instructions will be coming soon, be on the lookout. This contest is a “thank you” and to show appreciation for our Military Families for all they do, this contest is only open to Military Families.
Happy Holidays from your MWR team, we wish you nothing but happiness and joy.
DIVE INTO HYPER BOWLING DIVE INTO HYPER BOWLING
DIVE INTO HYPER BOWLING
BY FORT BLISS MWR DESERT STRIKE LANES
Looking for a new twist on traditional bowling?
Look no further than Hyper Bowling at Desert Strike Lanes! This innovative game combines the fun of bowling with the excitement of video games, providing a unique experience for players of all ages.
Hyper Bowling enhances the classic bowling experience by utilizing bumpers that feature colored light targets. Players can earn bonus points based on the target they hit. The score doubles depending on the color you hit from green you’ll score double to yellow you’ll get 5 times your score!
In addition, each pin knocked down counts for 100 points, making strategy a key component of the game.
Hyper Bowling offers four different modes to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.
DIFFERENT MODES
hyper bowl: A beginner-friendly mode introduces players to the basics of Hyper Bowling.
hyper bowl pro: For those looking for a challenge, this mode features smaller and faster-moving targets. As you progress, the
difficulty increases, requiring sharper aim and quick reflexes.
hyper active: In this mode, the targets stay still but “blink” randomly, changing colors just before the ball hits. This adds an element of surprise and excitement as players aim for potentially shifting scores.
hyper squad: Team up with friends in this bumper territory battle! Knock down pins and hit bumpers to grow your territory but watch out— hitting an opponent's territory can benefit them too!
Hyper Bowling is available for hourly rental, accommodating up to five players. Shoe rental is included in the pricing. Price ranges from $40 for 1 hour, $55 for 2 and $70 for 3 hours.
Desert Strike Lanes also offers free demos for those interested in trying Hyper Bowling before committing!
Ready to experience the excitement of Hyper Bowling? For more information or to reserve a lane, call Desert Strike Lanes at 915-568-6272 or visit their Facebook page. Don’t miss out on this fun new way to enjoy bowling!
A minimum of 10 guests and a 48-hour reservation is required.
The Full Bliss
* 3 Large 1 topping pizzas
* 3 Pitchers of fountain drinks
* 2 Lanes of bowling for 2 hours
$199.95/ up to 14 guests
The Fuller Bliss
* 4 Large 1 topping pizzas
* 4 Pitchers of fountain drinks
* 3 Lanes of bowling for 2 hours
$249.95/ up to 21 guests
All birthday packages include shoe rental.
SAFE HOLIDAYS SAFE HOLIDAYS Paw-sitively
BY GABRIELLE LOPEZ
The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it can also bring hidden dangers for our beloved pets. With festive decorations, delicious foods, and the loud booms of New Year’s fireworks, it’s crucial for pet owners to be aware of risks to their furry friends. From toxic holiday plants to unsafe foods and anxiety-inducing noises, this article will guide you through keeping your pets safe and comfortable during the festivities.
BEWARE OF TOXIC HOLIDAY PLANTS
While “real” Christmas trees (often fir, pine, and spruce) are generally safe for pets, it's important to maintain a routine to ensure they don’t ingest any sap, needles or water. Pine needles can cause intestinal blockages if ingested, and Christmas tree water can harbor bacteria that lead to digestive issues.
Other decorative plants during the holiday season may pose risks to your pets. The most common include: holly: Mildly poisonous; can cause vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
poinsettia: Mildly harmful; it's sap can irritate pets’ mouths.
mistletoe: Extremely toxic; symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Seek immediate veterinary care if ingested, as mistletoe poisoning can be fatal.
For a safer option, consider non-toxic plants like a Christmas cactus, or fake plant decor, which is both safe and budget-friendly.
SPICE IS NOT ALWAYS NICE: FOODS TO AVOID
Food is one of the greatest acts of love during the holiday season, leading many pet owners to share their leftovers with their companions. However, not all holiday foods are safe for pets.
While pumpkins can be beneficial for cats and dogs, only canned, cooked, or pureed pumpkin are safe. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean they can enjoy pumpkin spice.
Speaking of spice, avoid dishes with nutmeg, onion, and garlic powder, as these can harm pets’ red blood cells. Nutmeg, in particular, is especially dangerous and can cause seizures. On the flip side, cinnamon, rosemary, parsley,
SPECIAL TO BLISS NOW MAGAZINE
HOLIDAYS HOLIDAYS
and ginger can offer health benefits — just a sprinkle of cinnamon on your pet’s treat can ease joint pain!
Turkey dinner scraps are a pet favorite, but it’s best to set aside a portion before stuffing it up. Turkey is safe for both dogs and cats, provided it is skinless, cooked, unsalted, and free of gravy and spices. In contrast, even unprepared ham contains dangerously high salt levels for pets. Bone broth can enhance kibble as long as it lacks harmful spices and excessive salt.
After dinner, resist the temptation to toss a bone to your dog. Cooked bones can splinter easily, with turkey and chicken bones being especially brittle.
A holiday staple in El Paso is the tamal. Only dogs should sample tamales made without garlic, onion, and chiles— be sure to remove the corn husk!
PET PANIC? NOT THIS NEW YEAR!
The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it can also bring unique challenges for pet owners, especially during firework festivities. While many people enjoy the dazzling displays, our furry
friends often experience anxiety and fear. Fortunately, there are effective ways to help them cope.
Different pets exhibit different behaviors. While pet parents often recognize dogs' signs of anxiety, such as whining, trembling, and pacing, cats may dilate their pupils, groom excessively, or become irritated. Common anxiety treatments include Thundershirts, which provide constant pressure similar to swaddling. Prices vary by pet size, but a cheaper alternative is using an old t-shirt or piece of fabric to wrap around your pet. Additionally, head wraps can muffle firework booms while providing comforting pressure.
Other options include calming sprays and chews. Calming sprays release pheromones that comfort pets (specific to each species), while calming chews help reduce energy levels, making pets less sensitive to sudden sounds. Local pet stores in El Paso often offer discounts on calming chews during firework-heavy holidays like New Year’s and the Fourth of July.
To further distract your pet, try hiding treats or kibble in treat dispenser toys, providing engaging activities to take their mind off the fireworks.
As the holidays roll around, prioritizing your pets’ safety and well-being is essential. With a little preparation, you can enjoy the festivities while keeping your pets happy and healthy. Here’s to a wonderful holiday season for both you and your pets!
YOUTH OF THE YEAR YOUTH OF THE YEAR Valerie Rodriguez Valerie Rodriguez
local student shines at bgca conference
BY FORT BLISS MWR REPLICA YOUTH CENTER (RYC)
Since 1991, all Military Youth Centers have been affiliated with the Boys & Girls Club of America (BGCA), enabling them to incorporate BGCA programming into their activities and apply for grants for the centers and scholarships for the youth.
Fort Bliss Youth Centers, Replica and Milam, have participated in the Youth of the Year Leadership Development Program, the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club student can receive. The teen selected to be the National Youth of the Year represents BGCA and the voices of millions of club youth. For more than 75 years, the Youth of the Year program has recognized young people for their outstanding leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to health and wellbeing.
Being named Youth of the Year is a significant honor, as it represents thousands of youth across the nation, while becoming the Local Youth of the Year is a privilege for those at Fort Bliss.
The youth centers here on Fort Bliss are proud to collaborate with BGCA, which offers numerous scholarship opportunities for high schoolers. This year’s competition for Youth of the Year was fierce, with a high schooler from Replica Youth Center vying for the top spot. Valerie Rodriguez was selected to represent Fort Bliss at the 2024 Youth of the Year Scholarship
conference in Austin, Texas. She impressed the judges with her heartfelt story and passion for healthcare, outperforming five other candidates. In Austin, she competed against representatives from six other Military bases, both Air Forces and Army in the Southwest Region Military Youth of the Year.
Valerie’s dream is to pursue a career in the medical field to help save the lives of others and lead a research team one day. In addition to maintaining excellent grades, she logged 80 hours in community service in 2024, volunteering at her local youth centers. She gained valuable leadership skills and took charge leading a community garden project. She actively collaborated with peers and worked stands at various Fort Bliss events. Although she did not win, Valerie received a $500 scholarship for being selected as the Fort Bliss Youth of the Year. She expressed her excitement about participating and traveling to Austin. She enjoyed the interaction with other teens and listened to their experiences. She plans to compete again next year at her next Military Youth Center.
If any youth between grades 9-12 are interested in participating, reach out to a staff member at either of the youth centers here on Fort Bliss to get started on your very own youth scholarship journey. For more information, call 915-5683523.
JOIN THE FUN ANDRUN
BY MATT ORLOWSKI FORT BLISS MWR SPORTS, FITNESS & AQUATICS
Thanksgiving has a special way of bringing families and communities together, and what better way to kick off the holidays than with a little pre-feast fun at the annual Turkey Trot 5K! Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to burn some calories before indulging in your Thanksgiving meal, the Turkey Trot is the perfect event for all ages and fitness levels. Here’s why you should lace up your running shoes and join the festive fun.
A TRADITION THAT KEEPS GROWING
Turkey Trots have become a cherished tradition across the country, and for good reason. They’re more than just a race—they’re a celebration of community, fitness, and gratitude. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with participants ranging from competitive athletes to families and casual walkers. It’s not about how fast you finish; it’s about coming together for a cause, enjoying the camaraderie, and starting your Thanksgiving on a high note.
BURN OFF THE BIRD BEFORE YOU FEAST
Let’s be honest—Thanksgiving is all about the food. With turkey, stuffing, pies, and all the trimmings, it’s easy to overindulge. A brisk 5K not only revs up your metabolism but also gives you a sense of accomplishment before you enjoy your meal. Plus, what better way to earn that second slice of pumpkin pie than by crossing the finish line with a smile?
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
The Turkey Trot is a familyfriendly event that welcomes participants of all ages. Costumes are often part of the fun! Whether you’re running solo, with friends, or as a family, everyone is encouraged to get in the holiday spirit by dressing up in festive gear— think turkey hats, pilgrim costumes, or autumn-themed accessories.
GIVE HAPPY
BY FORT BLISS MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE (ACS)
Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) kicked off at Fort Bliss on Sept. 18, 2024. The CFC campaign is one of the largest and most successful workplace fundraising campaigns in the world.
Every year, across this great nation, Federal Agency employees and Military personnel rally to support charity causes they choose though the CFC. This year’s campaign theme is “Give Happy”. This embodies the feeling that giving a contribution provides happiness to the end recipient and makes you happy for making a difference. The amazing thing about the CFC is seeing how giving a little out of each paycheck, or a few hours a month, adds up to so much happiness, when we give together.
With 40,000 Active-Duty, Civilian, and contractor personnel giving a small contribution, it can provide a lot of happiness. Consider this example, if everyone at Fort Bliss were to give $12 (1 dollar per
month), it would raise $468,000 for charity causes that are important. Last year, Fort Bliss raised a total of $7,682.
Meet the Fort Bliss CFC team: Chair is MG Curt Taylor, Vice-Chair COL Jared Bordwell, Campaign Manager Nancy Thomas-Mainor, Campaign Coordinator Michael Dawkins and Assistant Coordinator Alexis Newton. For any questions, call Dawkins or Newton at 915-568-4706. Their role is to ensure a fair and equitable campaign that complies with all Federal and DoD regulations and ensure a 100% informed opportunity for participation by all organization civilian employees and Service Members.
Visit the CFC website at givecfc.org to learn more. Together as a great team, we all can work to make a big impact!
We’ve Got Your Bases Covered
We’re here to help the military community and their families make the most of their money. Our members could earn and save $461* per year by banking with us.
TASP OFFERED TO NEW ARRIVALS
BY FORT BLISS MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE (ACS)
Relocating to a new duty station can be a daunting experience for Soldiers and their Families. Army Community Service (ACS) plays a crucial role in easing this transition through its comprehensive sponsorship training program. This program ensures that newcomers receive the support and information they need to integrate smoothly into their new environment.
The Role of ACS in sponsorship is to provide training to unit sponsors or designated sponsors upon unit requests to support the well-being of Soldiers, Department of the Army Civilians, and their Families. One of the key services provided by ACS’s Relocation and Readiness Program is to provide support for the Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP). This program is designed to assist commanders in their responsibility to welcome and integrate new members into their units and communities.
When a Soldier or Civilian is assigned to a new duty station, they are paired with a sponsor from their gaining unit or agency. This sponsor acts as a guide and resource, helping the newcomer navigate the challenges of relocation. The sponsor’s responsibilities include Pre-Arrival Support which provides information about the new duty station, housing options, schools, and local amenities. Arrival Assistance, that includes meeting the newcomer upon arrival, helping with in-processing, and introducing them to key personnel and resources. Post-Arrival Integration that focuses on settling in, including finding local services, understanding the community, and connecting with support networks.
The sponsorship program offers numerous benefits, including: reduced stress: By having a dedicated sponsor, newcomers can feel more at ease knowing they have someone to turn to for help and advice.
faster integration: Sponsors help newcomers quickly become familiar with their new surroundings, which can lead to a smoother and faster adjustment period.
enhanced community connection: Sponsors facilitate connections with other members of the community, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
The Army Community Service sponsorship training program is an invaluable resource for Soldiers and their families. By providing dedicated support before, during, and after a move, ACS ensures that newcomers can transition smoothly and confidently into their new duty stations. This program not only enhances the well-being of individuals but also strengthens the overall military community.
The Fort Bliss Army Community Service (ACS), in partnership with Hiring Our Heroes (HOH), hosted a Career Exploration and Hiring Fair on Aug. 15, 2024, at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center on Fort Bliss.
The goal of the event was for employers to make rapid hires of the highly qualified Military Spouses, Active-Duty Military Members, Retirees, and DoD Civilians. More than 500 job seekers and 100 employers participated in the event.
BY FORT BLISS ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE (ACS) EMPLOYMENT READINESS PROGRAM (ERP)
“I
was able to connect with a good number of employers and at least four of them reached back. I interviewed with one employer, and I received and accepted a job offer!”
– Valerie
In addition, 390 job offers were presented, and over 500 interviews were conducted or scheduled for a later date.
Ms. Valeria Reyes, a local military spouse, described the hiring fair as a great event. “I was able to connect with a good number of employers and at least four of them reached back. I interviewed with one employer, and I received and accepted a job offer!”
Mark your calendars, the next ACS hiring fair is
scheduled for Feb. 5, 2025. However, if you are in the market for a new career, you do not have to wait until then; the Employment Readiness Program (ERP) offers resources to help with your career plan and job search.
Whether you’re a military spouse or Family member who just moved to a new installation, retiree, DoD Civilian looking for new opportunities, or ActiveDuty military, Active Reserve, National Guard member, or Wounded Warrior, ACS is here to help.
Reyes
For more information, call 915-569-5838 or visit the ACS Employment Readiness Program (ERP) at bliss.armymwr.com, you can also set-up an appointment or register for one of the classes provided.
RELOCATED TO A NEW AREA
BY FORT BLISS MWR ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE (ACS) AND EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM (EFMP)
William Beaumont Army Medical Center (WBAMC) Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) has moved! It is now located at 18511 Highlander Medics Street, third floor in the West Clinic. WBAMC EFMP is available to assist customers Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. WBAMC EFMP is closed every Friday for admin time and every second and fourth Thursday they will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and closed after 1 p.m. for training.
You can still reach their office by calling 915-742-3715 or via email at usarmy.bliss.medcom-wbamc.mbx.efmp@health.mil.
New diagnosis? Have questions or concerns? New to the area and need to find care?
Family Services EFMP offers Systems Navigator services for Families who need EFMP services. Systems Navigators can help connect Families with installation and community resources, assist and support Families who have concerns about education, and provide support and education for parents/ guardians on many aspects of the EFMP journey.
A Systems Navigator is a non-clinical case manager assigned to Families who request assistance and will remain with that Family while they are stationed at Fort Bliss. Non-clinical case management means that Systems Navigators can facilitate EFMP Families in reaching their non-medical goals.
A Systems Navigator’s role is to serve as the main point of EFMP Families. They will help services, keep Families updated about upcoming events and activities, and regularly check-in with EFMP Families stationed here at Fort Bliss to ensure they are supported.
Systems Navigators are available through Family Services EFMP located in ACS building at 2494 Ricker Road, by calling 915-568-9129, or via email at usarmy.bliss.imcom-hq.mbx.e-fmp-fort-bliss3@army.mil.
Fort Bliss MWR is working hard to bring back safe events for our families. Partner with us while giving back to the Fort Bliss military community.
Destination Fort Bliss MWR
Increase sales volumes and generate Return on Investment.
Introduce and promote your product to attract new customers.
Create positive feelings, encourage repeat purchase.
Create maximum exposure, directly interact with Fort Bliss military and civilian market.
Enhance customer experience by developing and maintaining a valuable relationship with your client base.
Expand your brand visibility and become recognized as a dedicated MWR supporter
Tap into new opportunities while enhancing the quality of life for our military community members. It is a “Win-Win” situation, and your successful business growth journey starts with Fort Bliss MWR. We have many Advertising and Partnership opportunities available. For more information, please do not hesitate to call our Corporate Partnership Office at 915-568-6078/3415.
