FRSA Family Readiness Support Assistant Carmen Brunsvold Lynda Schlukebier FA FRSA 34 th ID

FRSA Background The Global War on Terrorism has significantly increased operations and deployments within the Army National Guard causing additional strain on Soldiers and their Families The FRSA will assist Commanders in providing the Soldiers and Families with a “continuum of care” throughout the deployment cycles

FRSA Mission To empower commanders in their duty to deliver the Total Army Family Program* so that soldiers and families are entitled, informed, educated, assisted, and made ready for the unique demands of military life before, during, and after deployment. *See AR , Section 5-10

FRSA Objective The FRSA focus is to assist in Soldier and Family wellbeing throughout the seven phases of the deployment cycle: 1.Train-up and preparation 2.Mobilization 3.Deployment 4.Employment 5.Redeployment 6.Post-deployment 7.Reconstitution

FRSA Description A position established to assist the Commander and the FRG Leader maintain the stability of families during the seven phases of the deployment cycle.

FRSA Tasks (Commander related) Assist the Commander with… The development of a Family Readiness Plan Executing the Family Readiness Plan The development of a communication plan Providing training to subordinate unit Commanders and FRG’s Briefings during all phases of deployment Completing tasks in the post-deployment stage Developing a post-deployment reunion plan Guidance, assistance, and day-to-day support

FRSA Tasks (FRG related) Know and understand the role of the FRG Empower and strengthen FRG Assist the FRG Leaders with administrative tasks Maintain regular contact with FRG Leaders Mentor FRGs and attend their meetings Encourage a positive relationship between the FRG and the military

FRSA Tasks (Family related) Identify individuals requiring monitoring Coordinate with state Family Assistance Centers for referrals Provide assistance to RDC on family program issues, single returnee, R&R leave, emergency leave, and medical holds/issues Identify family members who have experienced significant problems (financial, emotional, relational)

FRSA Tasks (DCS related) Maintain a Family Readiness library Coordinate all aspects of Family Readiness Triad – assistance, support, and readiness Assist units to accomplish DCS tasks during all phases of deployment Coordinate with ESGR on any employer issues relative to Soldiers and/or Family members Provide support and advise to the state FRA

FRSA & Teamwork Know who to use Refer “out” to achieve the best result for families Review websites, books and pamphlets for usefulness Join training webinars Provide support to Rear Detachments, Family Readiness Groups, Family Assistance Centers, and Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve

FRSA & Readiness Readiness is important… It takes the focus off worrying and empowers family members to work within their control Healthy mind, body, and soul allows for better coping skills The “cost” of prevention is far less than the “cost” of intervention

FRSA Questions?