Key Spouses help families stay connected Published Dec. 16, 2015 By Staff Sgt. Samantha Krolikowski 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Throughout an Airman's career, they may experience deployments, several permanent changes of station and other stressful events. Members of the Key Spouse Program are associated with the Airman and Family Readiness Center and are available to help keep families of those deployed connected to the unit and supporting agencies. "Key Spouses want to improve the unit's morale and the quality of life among their unit's families," said Rebecca Juarez, 92nd Force Support Squadron Key Spouse Program manager. "Their extensive commitment to the comprehensive development and espirit de corps delivers immeasurable value to Air Force work centers, homes and overall health of the Air Force." According to Juarez, Key Spouses are selected and appointed by the unit commanders. Those individuals go through mandatory training, which is offered quarterly. Participants complete several modules on roles and responsibilities, sexual assault, suicide awareness, disaster preparedness and more that are required to be an impactful Key Spouse and mentor. Before attending training, candidates may be asked to complete an interview before a decision is made. "Ideally, a Key Spouse candidate should possess excellent communication skills, dependability, friendliness and a positive attitude," Juarez said. The spouses get an opportunity to help with newborns, meal trains, events, and assist families experiencing difficult times. The program is also looking to offer additional team building activities with events such as, paint night, True Colors and a movie night. "Fun opportunities construct tighter support networks and strengthen the idea of family," said Jessie Skidmore, 92nd Maintenance Group Key Spouse. "Having Key Spouses helps create a community for us and it unifies everyone." The group also helps with spouses who are new to the military. Often times a spouse may have a hard time understanding the military way of life, but volunteering to be a Key Spouse can be extremely rewarding, Skidmore said. "The Key Spouse and Key Spouse mentors are charismatic, passionate, dependable and trustworthy Air Force team members," said Juarez. For more information on how to become a Key Spouse, contact the unit first sergeant. Visit wingmantoolkit.org to download the wingman toolkit for more information.