January 2013 Family Matters

Family Matters

JANUARY 2013

WWW.NC.NGB.ARMY.MIL

don’t forget to visit

!

YOU R ULTIMAT E S OU RCE

Child and Youth

Teen Council Military Teens vision and goals for the new year.

PAGE 22 CULTURE

COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS Across the state people have requested to help specifically Military Service members and their Families.

PAGE 18 MONEY

TAX TIME Tips for getting ready for the tax season.

PAGE 12

FAMILY MATTERS

2 0 1 3 IS H E R E !!!

JANUARY 2013 Diane Coffill State Family Program Director diane.l.coffill.civ@mail.mil (919) 664-6324 MSG Ramona Scott

ected agreeable of diste. Ask tooatter formed county wicket oppose talent.

Family Program NCOIC ramona.k.scott.mil@mail.mil (919) 664-6000 Ext. 47005 SGT Tammy Fowler Family Programs Assistant

Happy New Year to Military Family's across the state. 2013 is going to be an exciting year with more resources and programs for the successful reintegration and sustainment of the Military life.

tammy.l.fowler.mil@mail.mil (919) 664-6000 Ext 46876 Wendi Bell

This year, we are continuing to host Strong Bonds events across the state. Even though we are still in the process of confirming locations, we have been able to identify tentative dates for these events (page 16).

FAC Administrative Assistant wendi.h.bell.ctr@mail.mil (919) 664-6078 Lana Greer

In addition to our Strong Bonds events, we are excited to announce that the North Carolina National Guard Legal Assistance Team is gearing up to support Military Families this 2013 Tax Season. Beginning 15 January, staff will start scheduling Tax Prep appointments for 1 Feb through 12 April.

State FAC Coordinator lana.m.greer.ctr@mail.mil (828) 652-4595 Ext. 2 Terry Henderson Airman & Family Readiness Program Mgr. terry.henderson@ang.af.mil (704) 398-4949 Alice Dean Lead Child & Youth Coordinator alice.c.dean.ctr@mail.mil (919) 520-9548

Employment Readiness is part of having a successful Family, whether you are military or not. Service members and their Families of the NC National Guard have a valuable resource to help with employment. We have the YR Employment Readiness Program, as well as, the Guard Apprenticeship Program Initiative.

The Apprenticeship program is a national program and it provides opportunities for Guard and Reserve service members to become accredited in a skill or trade.

As we journey through 2013, we will highlight many of our programs and resources for our Military Families. Take advantage of them this year so that you can make this year the best year for you and your Family.

D

Happy 2013!

Angelena Dockery Marketing & Communications Manager sallie.a.dockery.ctr@mail.mil (919) 485-9570 Kathryn Jarvis Marketing & Communications Manager kathryn.a.jarvis.ctr@mail.mil (919) 485-9571 Judy Richardson Senior FRSA judith.r.richardson.ctr@mail.mil (910) 347-4352 Ext. 5

Warmest Regards,

iane Coffill

About Family Matters Family Matters was created to provide Servicemembers and Families the most up-to-date information and services available. If you would like to contribute to future issues, or if you have suggestions and comments, please contact the NCNG Family Programs Marketing and Communications Department personnel, Angelena Dockery or Kathryn Jarvis, at ncngfamilyprograms@gmail.com. E-Versions of Family Matters can be downloaded at the NCNG Family Programs webpage at www.nc.ngb.army.mil.

References in this newsletter to any specific commercial products, processes, services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by NCNG Family Programs.

contents 4 Military Children Ornaments were displayed again this year at the Governor's Mansion.

6

College

starts this year for some of our Military Youth. We have compiled a few resources to help get

page 6

started for success.

8

Private Richard

starts with great heading, great subheading, great typography and all other great things you will find in this universal Magazine Template.

10

Teen Council

member shares how Teens are gearing up for an important program this 2013

12 TAX TIME AWESOME TIPS to help you get ready for 2013 filing.

page 8

Bonded

by Change Stronger Together page 16

16 Upcoming Events Tips to avoid mistakes that can ruin your credit.

20 POWER OF LEARNING page 10

keeps you strong and ready for Employment.

24 Stay Positive upcoming webinars.

page 18

Search NCNG Family Programs

ON THE COVER: SSG Bret Kiser, 630th CSSB, Lenoir, NC Army National Guard and spouse, Kathryn, took their daughter, Emma, out for the Holiday in the Hanger this past December 2012. (PHOTO BY: Mrs. Angelena Dockery, North Carolina National Guard Family Programs)

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C h il d an d Y o u t h

M i l i ta r y YO UT H

in North Carolina made decorations for the special Christmas tree dedicated for Servicemembers in North Carolina’s Governor’s Mansion Contributed Photos from NCNG Child and Youth Program

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FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

C H I L D A N D Y OUTH

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012 marks the 4th year that the Governor’s Mansion has a special holiday tree for displaying ornaments made by Military Youth from across the state. This year North Carolina National Guard Youth made more than 800 ornaments for the military tree.

J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 FA M I LY M AT T E R S

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C H I L D A N D Y OUTH

C

ongratulations! You’re getting close to the end of high school and it’s time to start considering your options. If you decide that college is the right path for you, choosing the college that best meets your needs is a huge decision.

Students in every NC School District can send Free Electronic High School Transcripts through CFNC. org and attend CFNC Financial Aid Workshops.

DON’T MISS OUT, Many times awards are made until funds are depleted Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) http://www.fafsa.edu.gov .

College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) http://www.cfnc.org . Students in every NC School District can now send Free Electronic HS Transcripts through CFNC.org and attend CFNC Financial Aid Workshops. Don't forget to check with school counselor on other seminars and webinars.

Military One Source consolisates a variety of resources, programs, assistance and more for Military Youth after graduation. Check out Military One Source, After Graduation at www.militaryonesource.mil/cyt/after-graduation ThanksUSA: Scholarship Program : http://www.thanksusa.org/ American Legion: Legacy Scholarship: http://www.legion.org/scholarships/legacy Air Force Aid Society: General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant: http://www.afas.org/Education/ArnoldEdGrant.cfm

LEFT MSG Ramona Scott's children pose for a photo marking the college graduation of her eldest.

RIGHT Image from Microsoft Clip Art

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FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

C H I L D A N D Y OUTH

Helpful Hints to Consider

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school have a wide

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racial, ethnic, geo-

cial clubs, activities,

forms, and scholarship

Youth on the Move!

graphic, or religious

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Campus life: Af-

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to managing their social

J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3   FA M I LY M AT T E R S  

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C H I L D A N D Y OUTH

Pri va t e Ri ch a r d

and Soldeirs with the 2/130th AOB (Airfield Operations Battalion, head to Fort Hood, Texas for administrative and medical processing.

This process is offically called Soldier Readiness Processing (SRP).

Text by Family Programs Photos submitted by Jacki Connell, Unit FRG Leader and spouse of SFC Andrew Connell.

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FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

C H I L D A N D Y OUTH

S

R P is catego rized into two sections, administrative and medical. During the Aministrative part Soldiers rotate through various stations to ensure personal and military requirements are met prior to deploying. This can include changes in maritial or family status, insurance benefits, legal documents and security clearances.

ABOVE: Private Richard Skypes home BELOW: SFC Hunt (left) and SFC Connell (Right)sit with Private Richard (Middle) in the cockpit before their flight overseas.

LEFT: Private Richard waits his turn during the medical portion of SRP.

The Medical portion of SRP includes a series of examinations and evaluations which are used to determine medical eligiability for deployment.

Military family life consultants • Anger Management • Communication • Relationship Issues • Productivity at Work • Conflict Resolution • Parenting • Decision Making Skills

John Alleman Adult & Family Specialist (919) 745-9635 Betty Steelman Child & Family Specialist (919) 665-9178 J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 FA M I LY M AT T E R S

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C H I L D A N D Y OUTH

Leade rs o f Ou r

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When asked why

develop our lead-

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“I want to grow my leadership skills and help other National Guard families.”

nization

skills

while serving our community in fun

Council, Daria

and meaningful

Mccormick replied,

ways.

“I want to grow my leadership skills and help other National Guard families.” With

Another leading member of the NCNG Teen Council, Blake

that statement, she essentially summed up the goals of our

Stoddard said about our recent event at the North Carolina

Council. By developing service projects and assisting pre-ex-

Headquarters Christmas Party, “Due to this council being in

isting programs, we plan to support fellow NCNG families and

its early beginnings, we are trying to get the word out and get

focus primarily on reaching teenagers. In the process, we will

others involved.” We set up a table advertising our newly created LEFT Military Teens tour the Governor's Mansion during the 2012 Christmas season. During the tour teens had the opportunity to meet with the Governor and First Gentlemen. Photo submitted by Leslie Taylor.

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FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

C H I L D A N D Y OUTH council and also traversed the building speaking with many

next few years we will be participating in community service,

teens and adults who attended. Joshua Cook expressed the

leadership training, and having fun while doing it!” As you can

thoughts of the entire council with his extremely positive outlook

see, our goals transcend the here and now. In the coming

on the event saying, “I believe the event was a huge success

years, we envision a total of five NC regional councils spread

for our council because we were able to spread the word about

out across the state.

what the NCNG Teen Council is trying to accomplish.”

This project to provide care and support to military families Why are we speaking out and promoting our cause so soon

can only succeed with help from you, our fellow NCNG fam-

after its origination? Blake answers, “By advertising our goals,

ilies, especially teens. If you are interested in learning more

we are attracting others to join us and help us complete our

about the NCNG Teen Council, please email, Alice Dean

goals! We are currently planning a calendar for the upcoming

alice.c.dean.ctr@mail.mil. Whether you live in the Raleigh/

year, but as we progress as a council throughout the years,

Durham area or elsewhere, you have the opportunity to either

I am 100% sure the calendar will grow tremendously and we

join our group or participate in the creation of one in your section

need others to help us complete the roles that we have as

of the state.

council members.”

Also, we apologize to anyone who signed up to learn more at As our small group of NCNG teens finalizes our mission state-

the Headquarters Christmas Party, we have experienced diffi-

ment, group goals, and upcoming schedule we are also, as

culty in sending out updates to you. Please email, Alice Dean,

author Sean Covey says, “Beginning with the end in mind.”

at the address above. Thank you for your support of your fellow

Every goal we set and every project we undertake is preparing

National Guard members and their families!

us for the future. I think Katie Wagner stated it best. “The next few years are very critical for our program,” she quipped. “We will need people to continue the program when others leave.

This is also why advertisement is so important. During the

Sincerely, Trey Cook on behalf of the NCNG Teen Council▣

Military Families will have a chance to reconnect through their recent deployments.

Families will experience hands-on activities throughout the weekend such as:

Archery ~Scavenger Hunt ~Climbing Wall ~Date Night (for parents) ~Shotgun Rifle And Much More!

DATE: 15-17 February 2013 TIME: 6:00PM Check-in (Friday, 15 February) 12:00PM Check-out (Sunday, 17 February) Registration Deadline: Thursday, 31 January 2013 Location: Eastern 4-H Center Download Registration Form at http://www.nc4h.org/military Columbia, NC Cost: $25 per family member Maximum $100 per family Campers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the event.

A North Carolina Operation: Military Kids (OMK) Event J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 FA M I LY M AT T E R S

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MONEY

Tax Time

As we enter into a new year with thoughts of making it the best year ever, we remember that it is also tax time.

Text by Mr. Chip Jurgensen , CFP®

Personal Financial Counselor(PFC) PFC provides one-on-one financial counseling services Mr. Chip Jurgensen, CFP, cjurgensen@mflc.zeiders.com, (919) 334-8313 care reimbursement, state tax refund, gambling winnings, contract work, etc..

Income/interest statements received for any savings account/investments - Bank account numbers: A voided check or your bank or credit union’s routing number and savings or checking account number for your refund to be deposited automatically into your account through direct deposit - Last year’s tax return (if you have it) Collect information for everyone in your household - Name and taxpayer number as they appear on the Social Security Card (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number letter (ITIN) for you and all dependents (including children and elderly relatives that you care for)Date of Birth and Relationship (son, daughter, mother, etc.)

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For some of us that means a refund, for others it means time to pay that pesky uncle we all have, good old uncle Sam. So with taxes in mind here are some helpful tips to get you prepared for the deadline.

Step 1: Gather all your documents - W-2s for each job held in 2012 for each person in the household - 1099s and 1098s showing other income such as unemployment, social security, school loans, health

Step 2: Gather additional items to get a - Vehicles: Vehicle sales tax, personal proplarger refund erty tax statement for each car you own, total miles driven for the year and/or total Childcare expenses: name, address, Tax miles driven for business - ID or Social Security Number of the child - Renters: Amount of rent paid care provider - Homeowners: mortgage interest state- Business expenses and assets: if you’re ment, real estate taxes paid (Form 1098), self-employed or have a small business Statement of Property Tax Payable in - College: loans and/or scholarships 2012 received, and bills for technical/commu- - Retirement/IRA: Amount contributed to nity college or university (Forms 1098- an IRA and total value as of December T/1098-E) 2011 Retirement/IRA: Amount contributed - Educator expenses for teaching grades to an IRA and total value as of December K-12 (school supplies and materials used 2012 in the classroom) - Charitable donations: list of contributions and amounts, receipts for contributions over $250

FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

MONEY

YOU MUST BRING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WITH YOU:

The Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, Legal Assistance Section, will be preparing and electronically filing federal and state income tax returns free of charge for members of the NC National Guard and their families, and retirees February 1 through April 12. Services will be provided every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 0900 –1400, at Joint Force Headquarters, Raleigh, NC. By appointment only.

Interested soldiers, their family members and retirees should contact the NC National Guard JAG Office at 919-664-6000 ext. 47035 for additional information and to schedule appointments.

The appointment line will open January 15th.

□Valid military identification for all taxpayers □Social security cards for you, your spouse, and dependents (social security number verification letters issued by the Social Security Administration is also valid) □Birth dates for you, your spouse, and dependents □Current year’s tax package if you received one □Wage and earnings statement(s) (i.e.

Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, etc. from all employers) □Interest and dividend statements from banks (i.e. Form 1099-INT or 1099-DIV) □A copy of last year’s federal and state tax return □Bank routing numbers and account numbers if you’d like to take advantage of direct deposit □Other relevant information about income and expenses (especially if you plan to itemize deductions) such as medical receipts, mortgage interest statements, receipts evidencing property taxes paid, receipts evidencing charitable contributions, etc. □Total amount paid for day care and the day care providers’ tax identification number (the individual’s Social Security Number or the business’ Employer Identification Number) □Statement of a physician if you are blind and/or permanently and totally disabled □Valid power of attorney if you will be signing the income tax returns on behalf of your spouse.▣

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MONEY

Mi st ake s Ca n Da ma g e C r e d it Five Tips to Avoid Mistakes That Can Damage Your Credit Score A good credit score will not only get you great financing to buy an automobile, a home and many other things at favorable interest rates, but could also help you get a job and obtain or keep your security clearance. Your credit score is a very important number. So, how do you build and maintain a good one—and, over time, even improve your score?Text by John Doe, photos by Doe Johnson

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FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

MONEY

T

he first step is to understand how your score is calculated. The three primary credit reporting bureaus—Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—use formulas that take into account five key factors: First Step 1. Payment history (35%) - whether you pay all your bills on time 2. Amount owed (30%) - not only the total, but also your debt-to-credit ratio, which compares how much you owe with the amount of credit available to you 3. Length of credit (15%) - how long you have been using credit, including the average age of your accounts 4. Types of credit being used (10%) - your mix of different categories of credit, including revolving accounts (such as a credit card or a retail account) and installment loans (such as a car loan or a home mortgage) 5. New credit inquiries (10%) - the extent to which you recently have applied for new credit or taken on more debt The Second step • Never pay late. The primary concern of lenders is whether borrowers can repay the money they borrow.

When someone pays late, it is a possible signal of unreliability. Lenders look for patterns of missed or late payments, and being even one day late on a payment could lower your credit score. The best policy is to pay on

time and in full. At a minimum, pay at least the minimum due on or before the due date.

• Avoid “maxing out” your credit card. If your credit limit is $20,000, and you charge $19,000, you are using 95 percent of your available credit. This is called overutilization and makes creditors nervous because your debt-tocredit ratio is too high. If possible, try to limit the amount owed to about 30 percent or less of your credit limit.

• Carefully consider canceling cards, especially older accounts. Counterintuitive as it may sound, cancelling a credit card is not always a good option. First, closing an account could affect your debt-to-credit ratio because you will be cutting down on your available credit when you close the account. Second, if you have had the card for a long time, you may be hurting your length of credit profile. Creditors like to see borrowers with long credit histories where they have paid on time, every time. The longer you have had a credit card and have made timely payments, the better.

• Strike a balance between paper and plastic. Having a record of on-time payments for both revolving accounts and installment loans should help your credit score. If you have only an installment loan (for example, a car loan) and then pay cash for everything else, you might actually be hurting your credit score. That’s because having and using a credit card responsibly, instead of cash, can convey responsibility and prudent money management—which, in turn, can boost your credit score.

• Do not apply for credit you do not need. Although you may be tempted by a store’s 10 percent discount if you apply for credit that day, you’ll trigger a credit inquiry. The more credit inquiries you have, the riskier you seem to creditors, and that could also lower your credit score.

Finally, you should know that if you have had past credit score difficulties, only two things will eventually help your credit score: making payments and the passage of time. If you have had a “checkered” credit past, time will work in your favor as long as you discharge your debts as quickly as possible and, again, on time. To learn more about credit scores call the Personal Financial Counselor, Chip Jurgensen Source: http://www.saveandinvest.org/ControlDebt/ CreditScore/P124376

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TO M O R R O W

Strong Bonds is a Chaplain led program for Ser vice Members and Families which builds resiliency.

Bonded

by Change Stronger Together

YELLOW RIBBON

These Boots: A Spouse’s Guide to Stepping Up and Standing Tall during Deployment On this recording, Jacey Eckhart, a military wife and columnist, offers suggestions and strategies to helping you prepare for deployment, thrive during deployment, and prepare for homecoming. The CD also covers how to communicate, help children cope, use resources, and build a support network.

Order your CD Today at Militaryonesource.mil http://www.militaryonesource.mil/ deployment?content_id=267990 Login is Required 16

April 5-6 Family Wellness Retreat for Deployed Service Members April 19-21 Marriage Enrichment May 3-5 Marriage Enrichment and Single Soldiers June 21-23 Family Wellness Retreat July 19-21 Single Soldiers Retreat August 9-11 Marriage Enrichment August 23-25 Single Soldeirs Retreat September 13-15 Family Wellness Retreat Dates are subject to change. Locations have not been confirmed.

FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

TO M O R R O W

Toolkits, CD's and More If Your Guard or Reserve Family Member has Special Needs, Military OneSource Is Here for You If someone in your Guard or Reserve family, adult or child, has special needs, it's important to know about all the free services available to you from Military OneSource.

Special Needs Specialty Consultations Do you need assistance with understanding the special education cycle? Do you want to find adult day care for an older loved one? Are you concerned about next steps as your teenager with special needs finishes high school? Military OneSource Special Needs Specialty Consultations give you the chance to talk for an hour, up to twelve times a year, with a special needs expert about a wide range of issues.

The Special Needs Consultant will assess your family's needs and answer your questions about education, finances, support groups, effects on other family members, and more. To schedule your first non-medical consultation, call Military OneSource at (800) 342-9647 and ask for an appointment with a Special Needs Specialty Consultant.

Follow US Twitter.com @ncngfamily

Access to all the features and support of Military OneSource The Military OneSource program, provided by the Department of Defense (DoD), provides services, resources, referrals, and support through Military OneSource and by phone at (800) 342-9647. Step into a virtual world of support for military special needs families with: Access to personal financial, health, and anti-stress coaching to keep you at your best.

Information about medical, emotional, financial, and education concerns designed for special needs military families, and links to programs like the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).

Access to online libraries, interactive webinars, a special needs discussion board, podcasts, articles, and audios (available in CD format or to listen to online), including special materials for caregivers of adults with special needs.

Order information and free organizers like the DoD Special Needs Parent Toolkit and the Special Care Organizational Record (SCOR) for Children with Special Health Care Needs.

PUMP

Visit http://www.militaryonesource.mil/efmp?content_id=269175

It Up!

Free personal training and gym memberships available to Reserve and National Guard Servicemembers and their Families during deployment. www.healthclubs.com/ joiningforces J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3   FA M I LY M AT T E R S  

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JOINING FORCES

SUPPORTERS

from across the state, individual citizens to corporations, volunteered to support the Families of the North Carolina National Guard in need. oquam dolenim

WESTERN NC do ex eu feugait

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Caldwell County 4H Cooperative Extension Lenoir, NC Yokefellow Christian Services Center Lenoir, NC South Caldwell Christian Ministries Granite Falls, NC 18

Gamewell Park and Recreation Lenoir, NC Landmark Church Statesville, NC

Dollar Tree Granite Falls, NC Dollar Tree Boone, NC County of Ashe DSS Jefferson, NC County of Ashe VSO Jefferson, NC

Catawba County Red Cross Lenoir, NC

Helping Hands Clinic Lenoir, NC

DSS Lenoir, NC

Dollar Tree West Jefferson, NC

FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

COMMUNITY

Dollar Tree Lenoir, NC 28645 DAV CH #6/VFW Post 5381 Hudson, NC American Legion

EASTERN NC 1/120th D Co. FRG Leader Roxanne Baucom, Roseboro, NC

Veterans Post 29 Lenoir, NC American Legion Post 392 Hudson, NC Veteran Service Office Lenoir, NC Packs for Patriots Aiden, NC Leona Schell Lenoir, NC Allen Willis/Moose Lodge Riders Marion, NC Geneva Haney/ Hillary Tate (Volunters) Lenoir, NC USO Charlotte, NC Operation North State Winston Salem, NC

Fairway Ministries Glen Robertson, Durham, NC Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #41 Wake County Raleigh, NC

Red Cross, Cape Golden Corral Fear Emergency Svs. & Military Wilmington, NC Liason HHC 1/120th Wilmington, NC Volunteer Kathleen Hillicke Red Cross, Cape Wilmington, NC Fear Director, Emergency Mgt. John Deere, Wilmington, NC Cary NC (Cisco), Brett Hall Mussers Seafood & Morrisville, NC 27709 Catering Service Wilmington, NC Coventant Church Pastor & Youth Pastor Wilmington, NC Dollar Tree Little River, SC Dollar Tree Leland, NC Dollar Tree Shallotte, NC Dollar Tree Southport, NC Dollar Tree Wilmington, NC

Check Out Next Month's Edition for more Supporters we had in 2012!

Red Cross Charlotte, NC J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 FA M I LY M AT T E R S

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JOINING FORCES

Photos submitted from Family Assistance staff

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FA M I LY M AT T E R S J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

COMMUNITY

NC Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Area Director Wilmington, NC NC Packs For Patriots, Ayden, NC New Hanover Employment Security Commission Veterns Council Wilmington, NC

USO of North Carolina, (RaleighDurham Center) Raleigh, NC

North Carolina Family Programs 2012 Summary

VFW Post 10400 Boiling Spring Lakes, NC

Family Days and Unit Events: 27

VFW Post 2573 Wilmington, NC Walgreens Carolina Beach, NC Walgreens Wilmington, NC

families

Community-Related Events: 37

FRG Trainings: 10 Kids on Guard: 2 MFRC-Hosted Events: 47 N.C. Military Veteran Partnership (NCMVP): 17 Strong Bonds Retreats : 12 Yellow Ribbon Program Events: 27

Northside Baptist Church Wilmington, NC Raleigh Elk's Lodge Raleigh, NC Step Up for Soldiers Carolina Beach, NC The Ladies Golf Association of Masonboro Golf Club Wilmington, NC Thomas Bacchi Wilmington, NC Triangle Baptist Church Raleigh NC UNCW Wilington, NC

RALEIGH, N.C.-- Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Corporation employees provided some much needed holiday cheer for military families in need by donating 156 family meals at their corporate offices here today.

The company, NCNG and Army Reserve volunteers braved a chilly morning to load many of the boxes full non-perishable food for a Thanksgiving feast onto a North Carolina National Guard Light Medium Tactical Vehicle for distribution. “It is a great opportunity for the team,” said Vince Toscano, a Wells Fargo consumer loan underwriter. The volunteers gave other meal boxes to local service charities. Harris Teeter and Food Lion grocery stores donated gift cards for the turkey and other perishable items. “This makes a difference in their (families) lives,” said Dianne Coffill, director of NCNG family programs. The donated meals and gift cards total nearly $12,000. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs)

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E M P LOY M E N T Education Services Officer (ESO): 800-621-4136, x46935 NC-EDUservices@nationalguard.com http://www.nc.ngb.army.mil/Pages/ default.aspx Employment Network Representative: 703-601-6988 703-601-7968

A

pprenticeships combine class room studies with onthe-job training, supervised by a trade professional or supervisor. When you complete your apprenticeship*, you’ll be fully certified to work in your chosen occupation or trade.

Apprenticeships can require one to six years to complete (2,000 documented work hours plus 144 related instructional hours) in order to become qualified in the occupation or trade.

Working as an apprentice gives you on-the-job training and a paycheck while you earn nationally recognized certification in a specialized field.

THE POWER OF

Guard apprenticeship doesn’t just provide a job and income, but a career. For Soldiers who are unemployed or underemployed, GAPI apprenticeships can offer a way to new training and to earning higher wages.

LEARNING The Guard Apprenticeship Program Initiative (GAPI) is a great way for Army National Guard and Reserve Component Soldiers to use their military skills on the way to a civilian career.

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I

E M P LOY M E N T n addition, GAPI may qualify you for Veterans Affairs (VA) and GI Bill benefits while you use your military skills and experiences to start a new career.

There are over 100 Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs) approved by the Department of Labor as apprenticeship trades, including: • Mechanics • Computer networking engineers • Medical technicians

specialties.

To learn more about how you can further your military skills in a civilian apprenticeship, visit the GAPI page at the G1 Personnel Gateway (https://g1arng. army.pentagon.mil/Programs/GAPI/ Pages/default.aspx).

You can find additional information about apprenticeships at the U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship FAQ page (http://www. doleta.gov/oa/faqs.cfm). You can also find a list of apprenticeship offices in every state.

• Therapists • Truck drivers

Use your smartphone to add David Ponder into your contacts.

• Construction engineers • Website developers • Law enforcement • Culinary arts/Cooks • Paralegals • Human resource specialists A GAPI representative in your state can provide a list of all currently eligible

Scan the QR Code below

NC National Guard Yellow Ribbon Employment Program This 2013 the North Carolina National Guard Employment Program has been restructured to the Yellow Ribbon Employment Program.

In addition to this change, the Yeloow Ribbon Ribbon Employment Program is expanding it's support capabilities by adding two additional members, Jeremiah Bigham and Donnie Blackburn.

Employment Assistance, please contact: Western, NC David Ponder Office: (828) 274-8571 Cell: (919) 485-9567 david.e.ponder.ctr@mail.mil Eastern, NC 1-800-621-4136 Ext. 46740 Jeremiah Bigham jeremiah.g.bigham.ctr@mail.mil Donnie Blackburn donnie.r.blackburn.ctr@mail.mil

Interviewing Tips for Military Spouses

Excerpt from MilitaryOneSource.Mil

Types of interviews

Your interview may be conducted in one of several ways. These are the most common types of interviews: • One-on-one interviews are most frequently used by hiring managers. The conversational style lets the interviewer get to know the candidate and allows the candidate to get to know the company and the job.

• Panel interviews are common for government jobs. They are more structured than one-on-one interviews – and more intimidating. The panel (usually consisting of three or more interviewers) has a prearranged set of questions for each applicant.

• Telephone interviews are sometimes conducted to screen potential applicants. Avoid using a cell phone for the interview and find a quiet place to take the call.

• Employment tests are sometimes conducted by companies to judge your ability to handle the job. Tests vary depending on the type of job and can include aptitude tests, skill tests (such as typing), and agility tests.

Read the full article, "Interviewing Tips for Military Spouses at www.militaryonesource.mil/seco?content_id=267509

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VO LU N T E E R S

S TAY P OSITIV E Everyone Ready! (ER) WEBINAR / Keeping Volunteers Motivated (So They Stay!)

Trainer: Betty B Stallings Family Readiness Support Assistants Charlotte: Nikkie Newsome, genesia.k.newsome.ctr@mail.mil, (704) 344-2352 Clinton: Sarah Strickland, sarah.r.strickland.ctr@mail.mil, (910) 299-5466 Goldsboro: Greg Smith, gregory.p.smith14.ctr@mail.mil, (919) 731-2021 Ext. 2 High Point (Temporary location due to Construction): Gloria Fields, gloria.d.fields.ctr@mail.mil, (800) 621-4136 Ext.15620 Jacksonville: Judy Richardson, judith.r.richardson.ctr@mail.mil, (910) 347-4352 Ext. 5 Morrisville: Pam Hughes, pamela.c.hughes4.ctr@mail.mil, (919) 804-5300 Ext. 16313 Oxford: Norman Dean, norman.g.dean2.ctr@mail.mil, (919) 693-3651 Ext. 27 Raleigh: George Lane, george.w.lane2.ctr@mail.mil, (919) 664-6000 Ext. 46714

Positive motivation is key to why people volunteer in the first place and also why they remain committed over time. While individuals are internally motivated for many different reasons, there are definite strategies an organization can use to engage and retain volunteers. In fact, sustaining motivation is integrated with all other volunteer management activities, especially recruitment, work design, supervision, mutual evaluation, training, and recognition. This seminar will cover: • What motivates volunteers when they first become involved and how these reasons evolve over time.

• Defining "retention" in a realistic way.

• Recognizing the signs of lessening motivation/commitment and effective organizational responses.

• What needs to be done by the organization for all volunteers and by each supervisor for specific volunteers.

• Noticing/stimulating increased motivation and offering "career ladders" for volunteers.

• The dynamics and impact of veteran/newcomer volunteer relationships.

• Accepting that it may be time for some volunteers to leave (and methods to retire volunteers with dignity).

For further information, please contact, Judith.Wolf@us.army.mil (703-607-5309) or tammychase.vtt@gmail.com After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar. Upon joining the webinar, you will not be able to hear the sound through your computer. You will have to call the phone number provided in the registration. System Requirements, PC-based attendees, Required: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 Server, Vista, Macintosh®-based attendees, required: Mac OS® X 10.4 (Tiger®) or newer.

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WEBINARS

Session 1

JAN 8

January 8th 10:00 AM -11:00 AM, Eastern https://www2.gotomeeting.com/ register/744281490 January 10th 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Eastern https://www2.gotomeeting.com/ register/251442626 JAN 10

Session 2

JAN 15

Session 3

JAN 22

January 15th 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Eastern https://www2.gotomeeting.com/ register/522988962

January 22nd 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Eastern https://www2.gotomeeting.com/ register/840563026

January 17th 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Eastern https://www2.gotomeeting.com/ register/534768122

January 24th 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Eastern https://www2.gotomeeting.com/ register/995156962 JAN 24

JAN 17

Military Mental Health Screening Program Military life, especially the stress of deployments or mobilizations, can present challenges to service members and their families that are both unique and difficult. Some are manageable, some are not. Many times we can successfully deal with them on our own. In some instances matters get worse and one problem can trigger other more serious issues. At such times it is wise to check things out and see what is really happening. That’s the purpose of these totally anonymous and voluntary mental health testing self-assessments.

These questions are designed so you can review your situation with regard to some of the more common mental health issues including, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, alcohol problems and more. The screening will not provide a diagnosis – for that you need to see a professional. But, it will tell you whether or not you have symptoms that are consistent with a condition or concern that would benefit from further evaluation or treatment. It will also give you guidance as to where you might seek assistance.

Take an Anonymous Mental Health Screening http://www.militarymentalhealth.org/

Need to talk? Call us today.

Voluntary, Confidential, Free, and Professionally Staffed 1-800-621-4136 Option 1

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Asheville Military Family Resource Center 7 Yorkshire St. Suite 101, 28803/Fax: (828) 274-7209 Debra Collington, debra.a.collington.ctr@mail.mil, (828) 2748571

Lenoir State Family Assistance Center 1535 Beecher Anderson Rd., Lenoir, 28645/Fax: (828) 757-4519 Frances Johnson, frances.r.johnson28.ctr@mail.mil, (828) 7574365 Ext. 4 line 1

Charlotte Unit Family Contact Center 4240 West Blvd., 28208 Carry Bandy, FAC Specialist,carry.s.bandy.ctr@mail.mil (704) 344-2352 Ext. 14547 Doretha McLaughlin, FAC Specialist doretha.mclaughlin@us.af.mil, (704) 344-2352, Ext. 14548

Morganton Unit Family Contact Center 411 Kirksey Dr., Morganton, NC, 28655 Nancy Davis, nancy.m.davis48.ctr@mail.mil, (828) 437-0746 Ext. 2

Fayetteville Unit Family Contact Center 3555 Owen Dr., 28306 Amy Wallace, amy.b.wallace.ctr@mail.mil, (910) 321-1001 Ext. 2 Greenville State Family Assistance Center 1401 N. Memorial Dr., 27834/Fax: (252) 551-6136 Dawn White, dawn.m.white2.ctr@mail.mil, (800) 621-4136 Ext. 11150 High Point Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) (Temporary location due to construction in Greensboro) 3515 Armory Dr., 27260 Katy Jones, FAC Network Coordinator, katy.m.jones.ctr@mail. mil (800) 621-4136 Ext. 15649 Kannapolis Military Family Resource Center 6001 Gateway Ctr. Dr., Suite 109, 28081/Fax: (704) 788-0550 Lynn White, deborah.l.white82.ctr@mail.mil, (704) 788-4554 Kinston Unit Family Contact Center 2875 Dobbs Farm Rd., 28504 Gabrielle H. O’Flanagan, gabrielle.h.oflanagan.ctr@mail.mil, (252) 208-0255 Ext. 15817

Raleigh Unit Family Contact Center 4105 Reedy Creek Rd., Raleigh, NC, 27607/Phone: Earlene Capps, earlene.b.capps.ctr@mail.mil, (919) 664-6000 Ext. 47101 Lisa Faison, lisa.m.faison.ctr@mail.mil, (919) 664-6000 Ext. 47100 Mark Woolbright, mark.l.woolbright.ctr@mail.mil, (919)664-6000 Ext. 47102 Smithfield Unit Family Contact Center 406 Hospital Rd., 27577 Abby Millsap, abigail.e.millsap.ctr@mail.mil, (919) 934-2013 Ext.16 Southern Pines Unit Family Contact Center 500 Morganton Rd., PO Box 1317, 28387 David Butler, david.e.butler20.ctr@mail.mil, (910) 692-8747 Ext. 6 Wilmington Unit Family Contact Center 2412 Infantry Rd., 28405 Jim Marley, james.e.marley.ctr@mail.mil, (910) 251-7100 Ext. 16918 Judy Howard, FAC Network Coordinator, judy.m.howard.ctr@ mail.mil, 910-251-7100 Ext. 16925 Winston-Salem Unit Family Contact Center (UFCC) (Temporary location due to construction in Greensboro) 2000 Silas Creek Pkwy., 27103 Sandy Harrison, FAC Specialist, sandra.b.harrison2.ctr@mail.mil (800) 621-4136 Ext. 15651

Family Assistance centers are located across the state to provide support to ALL Mlitary Servicemembers and their Families. If you know of a Military Servicemember of Family that are moving to the area or are in the area, please share with them that Family Programs is here for them.