May Spotlight

Information & Referral (I&R) Specialists are available to provide one-on-one assistance with information and relocation services. For more information, please contact your nearest Personal & Professional Development- Resources facility or email: mcbb_ppdr_request@usmc.mil.

I&R Specialists are available to coordinate unit and small group sponsorship trainings. For more information contact one of the following Marine and Family Programs Specialists:

Camp Foster : 645-7494

Camp Kinser & MCAS Futenma : 637-2509

Camps Hansen : 623-3055

Camp Schwab : 625-2622

Camp Courtney : 622-7739

To submit a request for support please email mcbb_ppdr_request@usmc.mil.

Survival Japanese Language

Learn basic Japanese phrases and pronunciation.

01 May 1130-1230

04 May 1130-1230

11 May 1130-1230

25 May 1130-1230

Survival Japanese Writing

Camp Courtney Bldg. 4425

MCAS Futenma Bldg. 407

Camp Hansen Bldg. 2339

Camp Schwab Bldg. 3000

Learn to write basic Japanese used on everyday signs/ items that are written in Hiragana, Katakana and Kanji styles.

02 May 1130-1300

11 May 1130-1300

Japanese Language Part 1

Camp Foster Bldg. 445

Camp Kinser Bldg. 1220

This is a basic class for adult learners. Learn frequently used phrases, self -introduction, conversing at restaurants/stores, interrogative/ demonstrative pronouns, body parts, and numbers

15-19 May 1130-1300

Japanese Language Part 3

Camp Kinser Bldg. 1220

This is a basic class for adult learners. Learn existence verbs, verb conjugations, present affirmative/negative polite expressions.

15-19 May 1130-1300

22-26 May 1130-1300

Koinobori Carp Streamer Craft

Camp Courtney Bldg. 4425

Camp Foster Bldg. 445

In this class, you will learn how to make a Japanese Boy’s Day decoration, Koinobori ( Carp streamers ), using colorful crepe cloth.

01 May 1130-1300

04 May 1130-1300

Camp Foster Bldg. 445

Camp Courtney Bldg. 4425

Tea Ceremony

This class demonstrates how a Japanese Tea Ceremony is performed. Learn the proper etiquette and protocol for when attending a Japanese Tea Ceremony.

09 May 1130-1300 Camp Foster Bldg. 445

Japanese Grocery Tour

Take a guided tour to a local food store and discover traditional dietary choices and typical Japanese ingredients. Please bring your own vehicle for transportation.

12 May 1030-1230 Rycom Mall

Newcomers’ Orientation Welcome Aboard (NOWA)

Accompanied USMC and USN personnel (all ranks), civilian employees, family members age 10 and up, and unaccompanied USMC and USN personnel (E-6 and above) are required to attend a NOWA brief. NOWA brief attendance is required to obtain a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) privately owned vehicle (POV) driver’s license. Please contact the Installation Safety Office at 645-7219 to inquire about taking the SOFA POV license examination prior to attending a NOWA brief. MCCS will facilitate the NOWA brief with the assistance of installation leaders and program subject matter experts.

Due to a lack of childcare for the NOWA brief, the MCIPAC Chief of Staff has provided the option to request a Virtual NOWA brief for accompanied Service Members, DoD Civilians, and Contractors with family members under the age of 10. The virtual NOWA will be available for the spouse of the Service Member, DoD Civilian, or Contractor unless that member is a single parent and with a child under the age 10. All others are required to participate in the in-person NOWA brief. The Virtual NOWA brief is a four-hour, video based webinar facilitated via the Qualtrics system. Virtual NOWA brief codes and links are specific to the individual and will be emailed on Thursday by 1000, the day after the in-person NOWA brief. Completion rosters will be submitted that Friday by 1400 to the Installation Safety Office.

Children under the age of 10 will be permitted to attend the NOWA brief; however, parents should be made aware that the information being presented during the brief may not be considered appropriate for this age group. Two copies each of web orders (USMC)/original orders (USN) and Area Clearance/Dependent Entry Approval message, valid driver’s license, and valid identification card are required for SOFA POV license testing (for family members) immediately following the NOWA brief. Active duty personnel under the age 26 must bring a certificate of completion for Driver’s Awareness (USMC)/Driving for Life (USN) training.

For more information, please contact us online at: Email: mcbb_nowa@usmc.mil

10

In-Person Sponsorship Training

Get the most up-to-date information on regulations and policies affecting PCS moves to Okinawa. This includes a full explanation of the sponsor’s roles and responsibilities, and information about the resources in place to assist with a sponsorship assignment with COVID-19 regulations.

02 May 0900-1100 Camp Kinser Bldg. 1220

08 May 1300-1500 Camp Foster Bldg. 5908 09 May 0900-1100 Camp Courtney Bldg. 4425

23 May 0900-1100 Camp Hansen Bldg. 2339

26 May 0900-1100 Camp Schwab Bldg. 3000

In-Person Sponsorship Coordinator Training

This workshop is designed to train Unit Sponsorship Coordinators (USC) to better understand their roles, duties and responsibilities in the unit’s Sponsorship program. This class will review all pertinent orders and directives, the Functional Area Inspection (FAI) checklist items and update all USC’s on changes within the program.

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In-Person Smooth Move Workshop

The Smooth Move Workshop provides pre-departure and destination information on travel entitlements, base and community information, financial concerns, employment opportunities, and much more. Orders are not required and family members are encouraged to participate.

08 May 0800-1030

22 May 0800-1030

Foster Bldg. 5908

For more information, please contact us online at: Email: mcbb_reloassist@usmc.mil

For more information, please visit us online at: www.mccsokinawa.com/relocation

Command Financial Specialist (CFS)

This training provides Unit Command Financial Specialists (CFS) with the basic tools, techniques, and information to perform as the unit CFS. Training provided is governed by OPNAVINST 1740.5B (Navy) and MCO 1700.37 (USMC). Only 25 seats are available. Call Foster MFR at 645-2104/3600 for additional information or to register.

01-05 May 0730-1630

Saving and Investing

Camp Foster Bldg. 445

This class explores how to use saving and investing to achieve financial security. Learn about basic investing techniques, taking advantage of compounded interest and time, along with exploring various saving and investing tools and uses to help you reach your financial goals. Satisfies PFM training codes: FA.

10 May 1300-1500 Camp Schwab Bldg. 3000

Credit Report and Score Analysis

Learn how to cope with a credit crisis and establish an action plan for building, rebuilding and maintaining your credit rating.

16 May 0830-1000 Camp Hansen Bldg. 2339

Home Buying

Learn about interest rates, points, closing costs, escrow accounts, earnest money, selecting an agent and processing a VA loan.

18 May 1330-1530 Virtual

Money Management

This hands-on workshop will enable attendees to prepare a financial statement, develop a budget, establish a savings plan and build/rebuild a good credit record. Satisfies PFM training codes: PR, FD, FA, FC, FH, FE, FF, TL and FL. Please bring the following to class: Current LES, bank statements, investment statements and statements of debt/obligation.

19 May 0830-1130 Camp Shields Bldg. 6300

To sign-up or register for the PFMP classes, visit the MCCS PFM webpage at: https://www.okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/marine-family-support/financialmanagement/

TSP/BRS Blended Workshop

This workshop will explain how to manage your TSP retirement account, to include avoiding redundancy and allocating contributions. This workshop will also discuss the Blended Retirement System to include the pension, TPS, continuation pay and lump sum retirement. Satisfies PFM training codes, FB, FG.

23 May 0830-1030

Money Management

Camp Kinser Bldg. 1220

This hands-on workshop will enable attendees to prepare a financial statement, develop a budget, establish a savings plan and build/rebuild a good credit record. Satisfies PFM training codes: PR, FD, FA, FC, FH, FE, FF, TL and FL. Please bring the following to class: Current LES, bank statements, investment statements and statements of debt/obligation.

25 May 0800-1100 Camp Foster Bldg. 445

CFS Round Table

This half-day meeting is for CFS qualified individuals to discuss current topics related to the Command Financial Specialist program.

26 May 1300-1630

Car Buying

Camp Shields Crows Nest

Are you interested in leasing or buying a new or used car? Learn the “Ins and Outs” of purchasing a new or used vehicle and the terminology of leasing a vehicle. This class will discuss purchasing, financing and trading in a vehicle. Call the Foster PSC at 645-2104 for more information or to register for this workshop.

31 May 0830-1030

Camp Kinser Bldg. 1220

To sign-up or register for the PFMP classes, visit the MCCS PFM webpage at: https://www.okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/marine-family-support/financialmanagement/

VA Overseas Military Services Coordinator (OMSC)

Due to the COVID-19 protocols, the Veterans Affairs Office’s located at Camp Foster Marine and Family Programs, Bldg. 445 and Kadena Air Base Airman and Family Readiness Center, Bldg. 220, were closed, effective 20 May 2020. All appointments are suspended indefinitely.

For VA inquiries email: omscjapanok.vbavaco@va.gov

VA Advisors

For inquiries on education, healthcare, life insurance, or home loans, please see the below list of VA Advisors available for support:

Jeff Hanscom

• Email: jeff.hanscom.ctr@vatap.calibresys.com

• DSN: 645-4027

Retired Activities Office (RAO)

The RAO serves military retirees from all branches of service in a number of ways, to include the following:

• Serves as a central point to obtain valuable information.

• Provides reliable answers to questions.

• Refers individuals to appropriate service providers.

The RAO volunteer is a valuable link to help retirees and family members obtain the rights, benefits and privileges they are entitled to receive.

For more information about the RAO, or if interested in volunteering, please email RAO@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 645-3159/3151.

Transition Readiness Seminar (TRS)

The TRS is required for all Service Members separating from military service. Service Members must have completed an individual counseling (IC) and pre-separation brief prior to registration. The seminar incorporates briefs from Veterans Affairs, Department of Labor, Personal Financial Management and other important transition resources. For registration details, contact your Unit Transition Coordinator (UTC).

01-03 May 0730-1630

08-10 May 0730-1630

15-17 May 0730-1630

22-24 May 0730-1630

Camp Hansen Bldg. 2339

Camp Kinser Bldg. 1220

Camp Schwab Bldg. 3000

Camp Foster Bldg. 439

Department of Labor Employment Workshop

The 2-Day Department of Labor Employment Workshop (DOL-EW) is available to meet the congressionally mandated requirement for those who seek employment after separating or retiring from the military. The DOL-EW curriculum is designed to assist service members with their transition into high-quality civilian careers. The track will assist in identifying and developing career goals, understanding hiring methods, as well as creating a professional introduction and a draft resume.

04-05 May 0730-1630

11-12 May 0730-1630

18-19 May 0730-1630

25-26 May 0730-1630

Boots to Business (B2B)

Camp Hansen Bldg. 2339

Camp Kinser Bldg. 1220

Camp Schwab Bldg. 3000

Camp Foster Bldg. 439

The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides a live virtual workshop to deliver the Entrepreneurship Track - B2B. This 2-day introductory course is available to Service Members and their spouses/adult family members. This workshop provides valuable assistance to those who are exploring self-employment opportunities. The course provides the key steps for evaluating business concepts and the foundational knowledge required for developing a business plan. Participants are also introduced to SBA resources that are available.

25-26 May 0800-1630

Virtual

The TRP office does not accept direct registrations from Service Members. For more information on the TRP, please email MCBB_TRP@usmc.mil or call 645-3151.

Career & Credential Exploration (C2E)

The 2-day vocational track C2E is designed to assist service members in identifying certifications and credentials needed for their career interests. This 2-day workshop will help you identify the best occupation for your strengths and create a plan to make it a reality.

18-19 May 0800-1630 Camp Foster Bldg. 439

The TRP office does not accept direct registrations from Service Members. For more information on the TRP, please email MCBB_TRP@usmc.mil or call 645-3151.

The FMEAP provides individual assistance with resume development and review, interview coaching, and a career resource center with a computer lab. All services are free and available to Service Members, retirees, reservists, DoD employees, military spouses and family members.

Resume Writing

Write a winning resume today! In this workshop you will be able to identify your skills, learn different resume formats, and how to write about your accomplishments so that an employer will call you for an interview.

18 May 0830-1130

Federal Government Employment

Camp Kinser Bldg. 1220

Applying for federal employment can be a daunting process, but we are here to help de-mystify the process. We will walk you through the application process, required documents, creating a resume and how to align your skills with the job qualifications.

02 May 0830-1130

09 May 0830-1130

Camp Foster Bldg. 445

Camp Courtney Bldg.4425

For more information on FMEAP, please visit our website at www.mccsokinawa.com/FMEAP

Email: mccb_fmeap@usmc.mil

MCTB Marine Corps Family Team Building

Marine Corps Family Team Building Mission: To achieve and enhance readiness for Marines, Sailors, and their families throughout their assignment on MCB Camp Butler as well as successfully anticipate and prepare for any encounters in military lifestyles overseas.

L.I.N.K.S. Workshops

L.I.N.K.S. is a military acculturation program designed by spouses to help meet the needs of all military personnel, families, and DOD ID card holders.

L.I.N.K.S. Foundations

The L.I.N.K.S. Foundations workshop is designed for spouses of any age and experience level. Come meet other spouses, network and share your insights and knowledge in this full day workshop.

18 May 0800-1630 Camp Kinser Ed Ctr. Bldg. 1220

Marine Corps History & Traditions: Outlines USMC structure and mission to include Navy personnel attached to USMC units. Provides historical insights and discusses traditions.

Benefits & Services: An overview of benefits, privileges, and resources available to military families; including the location of these services and how to access their wealth of information.

Pay: Explains the differences between a civilian and military paycheck, while introducing the Leave and Earning Statement (LES), including a general discussion on basic pay and allowances.

Separations & Deployments: Discusses the inevitable separations military families will experience, and provides suggestions from seasoned spouses on how to successfully balance the additional responsibilities when your Marine is away.

Moving in the Military: Insights on the moving process; everything from the first packer’s inspection to clearing quarters.

Communication: Focuses on healthy interaction with others in the family and community; insights into the role of the Navy Chaplain and family support.

Career Opportunities: Provides participants with information on the benefits and opportunities for those who choose to “Stay Marine”.

Volunteering: Explore the benefits of becoming involved in your community; discuss local opportunities for volunteering and how to include on a resume.

Registration is required for all workshops. To register, or request accommodations, go to: https://www.okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/

MCTB Marine Corps Family Team Building

LifeSkills Training and Education

LifeSkills Training and Education is a collection of personal and professional skill building classes that promote positive adjustments and improved individual and family functioning. It provides Marines and family members practical skills for successful interactions and positive outcomes at work, home, and in life.

Premarital Seminar

The seminar provides an in-depth look at the procedures for getting married in the United States or overseas. The seminar also hosts information regarding IPAC benefits, legal services, immigration procedures, financial partnerships, and basic communication strategies (PREP).

12 May 0800-1430 Camp Foster Bldg. 5906

Readiness

&

Deployment Support (RDS)

Readiness & Deployment Support prepares military personnel and their families for the challenges of deployment and separation to help create healthier families.

Open Pre-Deployment Brief

Open Pre-deployment briefs provide an overview of available services and support to the specific needs of the unit and those attending. These briefs cover topics such as legal planning, personal preparation, communication tools, and local resources with the participation of local organization representatives. Pre-deployment briefs contain helpful information Marines, Sailors, and their families can use to help ensure a successful deployment experience. *Linkto virtual brief will be sent via Command DRC/URC.

24 May 1000-1200 Camp Hansen Ed. Ctr. Bldg. 2339

Submit request through your Readiness Coordinators

Registration is required for all workshops. To register, or request accommodations, go to: https://www.okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/

Mctb

Marine Corps Family Team Building

Family Readiness Program Training (FRPT)

FRPT workshops provide resource information and training to enhance Family Readiness Command Teams in support of the Unit, Personal and Family Readiness Program.

Command Team Training, Family Readiness

Command Team Advisor / Assistant

Family Readiness Command Team Training is designed to orient and guide Command Team members in their roles, responsibilities, and operating components of their Unit, Personal and Family Readiness Program. This training provides the required information to implement and execute a successful program to empower Marines and their families to not just survive, but to thrive while taking on the challenges of the military lifestyle.

03 May 0800-1100 Camp Foster Bldg. 445

OPSEC & PII Training

During this training, appointed Family Readiness Assistant or Advisor volunteers will learn about the latest PII and OPSEC issues, including a special focus on social media, and how to safeguard confidential information. PII and OPSEC training is designed to orient and guide all volunteers in their responsibilities to protect PII.

03 May 1100

UPFRP Readiness Coordinator Training

UPFRP Readiness Coordinator training provides Deployment and Uniformed Readiness Coordinators with the required information and resources to be successful in their roles and to effectively support the Unit, Personal and Family Readiness Program. This four-day training prepares Readiness Coordinators for the challenging and exciting task of managing the Unit, Personal and Family Readiness Program.

08-11 May 0800-1630 Camp Foster Bldg. 445

Registration is required for all workshops. To register, or request accommodations, go to: https://www.okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/