Base hosting Caring for People Forum Published May 20, 2011 By Maj. Deborah Davidson 92nd Medical Operations Squadron FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- In 2009, the idea for an Air Force Caring for People Forum began and has evolved as a preferred means for AF leaders to receive input to enhance our Air Force communities. This event takes place annually in Washington, D.C. during April, but this year the event will include forums at each AF installation. Fairchild is leading the way and has actually already hosted forum-style events, an Airman Summit in 2009 and a Family Summit in 2010. The format was designed to empower Airmen and families at the installation-level to give them a chance to make suggestions and express their concerns about Air Force services and policies. This feedback has allowed commanders the ability to make real improvements in areas that positively affect their communities. Fairchild will again host a forum Monday at the base chapel from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and all Active Duty, family members, Guard/Reserve and retirees are invited to be a part of this community-building effort. "The forum is another great way to help shape our community. We all have ideas about better programs, facilities and opportunities for our families and ourselves," said Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James Glass, 92nd Air Refueling Wing Chaplain's Office. "From the Comprehensive Airman Fitness proposals that members of the Fairchild community sent in earlier this year, we know that people really care about making this a great place to live and work, and the forum provides caring people a chance to make changes that matter." The focus group's forum will include singles and families. Each group of participants will be given the opportunity to share their ideas about how life at Fairchild can be improved and express concerns about activities and policies that they feel may not contribute to a strong sense of community. The issues of greatest concern will be sent to the Commander's Action and Information Board for appropriate action. Whatever issues can't be resolved locally will be elevated to Air Mobility Command, and, if there's something AMC can't answer, it will be forwarded to Headquarters, AF for their action. "I am committed to raising the bar on how we take care of Airmen and families. I want to hear your opinions and ideas on improvements we can implement to make Fairchild a better place to work and live," said Colonel Paul Guemmer, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander. "I take all of your inputs seriously. There were some great suggestions from the last forums and I look forward to seeing what this forum comes up with." Anyone interested in registering may email Major Deborah Davidson or Major Jolene Norris at: deborah.davidson.2@us.af.mil or jolene.norris@us.af.mil. Funding is available to reimburse for child care expenses. Dress is casual and lunch is provided.