You’ve got a friend in the Phoenix Spouse program Published April 2, 2009 By Team Fairchild Phoenix Spouse Program FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- If your spouse is TDY or deployed and you have a problem, what do you do? The next time you have a special need and are not sure where to turn, think two words: Phoenix Spouse. The Phoenix Spouse is within your squadron and has volunteered their time and energy to be a communication link to family members, especially during TDY or deployments. The program's goal is to improve overall quality of life, not only for military personnel, but more specifically, their family members. The Phoenix Spouse Program is modeled after the Navy's Ombudsman Program, but is tailored to the specific needs of each squadron, as assessed by its commander and first sergeant. Several Fairchild units participate in this program and have active volunteers. The key spouse is a volunteer position, appointed by the squadron commander or the first sergeant. Criteria for selection include the spouse's time availability, willingness to help, and diplomacy skills. Once the military spouse is deployed or TDY, it is the role of the Phoenix Spouse to kick into high gear to help keep family members up to date on unit functions, deployments or TDY activities. Often, a simple morale call also goes a long way. Phoenix Spouses attend formal training; receive a manual which serves as a guide in certain situations. Monthly meetings and trainings are held to refine skills, network and exchange ideas. Sometimes, spouses simply enjoy sharing and listening to others. The meetings build stronger and more resilient families and overall communities. They provide opportunities to moving forward on resolving family issues that many of us process through. During deployment or TDYs problems are vary: simple problems surface; however sometimes more complex issues arise. Phoenix Spouses have been contacted on subjects ranging from personal finances, to the challenge of long distance relationships, to family or child care stress. In all cases, if the Phoenix Spouse cannot assist you in finding your best options for solving the problem at hand, they will find someone who can. It is important to remember that their function in having accepted this responsibility is to provide information and referral sources as necessary. Additionally, sometimes family members are intimidated by someone in uniform, or they think they'll get the active duty member in trouble if they seek assistance. Some would rather approach the Phoenix Spouse in an unofficial capacity. With few exceptions (to include harm to self and others, child abuse, and good judgment), conversations with Phoenix Spouses are kept in confidence and are "off the record." All in all, the approval rating of the Phoenix Spouse Program is extremely high. For more information on how to contact your Phoenix Spouse in your unit (larger units may have more than one), call your unit commander or first sergeant, or contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center, 247-2246.