Please let me take this opportunity to introduce myself to those I have not yet had the opportunity to meet. My name is Kelli and I am the Family Readiness Officer for MAG-16. I have been married to my Marine for over 20 years and I have 3 children. I also have a degree from UNC, Chapel Hill in Mass Communications (GO TARHEELS!). Our family has traveled all over the world with the Marine Corps and it is my hope that my many experiences will help me support you.
So what does a Family Readiness Officer (FRO) do? I serve as the link between the MAG-16 families and the Command team. I am your advocate and resource to things such as: liberty dates, deployment communications, where to find information about tuition assistance, where you can get free childcare when you need to run errands, and where to go when you're stretched thin and need groceries, just to name a few! I am here to help you understand your Marine's work lifestyle with its long hours and high operational tempo plus to answer any other questions or concerns you may have about this hectic Marine Corps experience.
The Family Readiness Program is a fairly new concept in the Marine Corps. The program consists of me (the FRO), the Command Team, a few Marines and lots of dedicated volunteers. The goal is better communication between you and the Command and a focus towards keeping our families fully informed and prepared so our Marines can focus on their jobs. The Marine Corps definition of family includes the families he or she was "Born Into, Sworn Into and Married Into." The support provided by the FRO extends not only to the spouse and children but also to whomever else the Marine would like to include such as Parents, Guardians, Fiancés, Grandparents, or fellow Marines.
It's extremely important to me that you know how much I care about our families and how excited I am about meeting you. I want to make sure that you feel a part of the MAG-16 family because as Marine Corps loved ones, life can be challenging and we don't have to do it alone!
How can my experience help your family? As a Marine Corps spouse, I have always liked to be "in the know." I feel that if I know what's going on with my Marine's job and his unit, I can do a better job of supporting him. My goal is to become your MAG-16 information source…helping YOU to be "in the know" too. Please do not hesitate to call me or email me with any questions or concerns. My office is always open; please drop in and we can visit over a cup of coffee.
Warm Regards,
Kelli Richardson
MAG-16 Family Readiness Officer
858-577-6502 - office
858-349-6241 - cell
kelli.richardson@usmc.mil
http://www.facebook.com/MAG16USMC
"Semper Fidelis"
Click here for Family Readiness Information Links