Fort Detrick
ACS Outreach Program
Community Support Center
Bldg. 1520, Freedman Drive
Phone: 301-619-3171
Fax: 301-619-6288
E-mail: USAGOutreach@amedd.army.mil
Hours: 0800-1630
Purpose
The purpose of ACS-Outreach is to enhance readiness and retention by helping soldiers and families develop a stronger sense of self-reliance and belonging in the military community. Outreach targets those families who have the greatest level of need, but are least likely to seek out and take advantage of services until they have reached a state of crisis. Outreach focuses on three main areas: education and prevention, direct services and organizing support networks to encourage self help and cultivate a sense of ownership within the military community.
Services
Army Family Action Plan
Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) is a grassroots program allowing members from every sector of the military to have a voice in raising concerns to the leadership. Some issues are dealt with at the local level while others are forwarded to higher commands for resolution. An AFAP Commander's Steering Committee (CSC) works to complete active local issues presented during the annual AFAP Conference. The Committee meets quarterly and is made up of action POCs from installation support agencies and leadership staff. The Deputy Installation Commander leads the CSC in an attempt to bring all issues to resolution and closure. An AFAP Advisory Council meets quarterly to provide oversight and support for the AFAP program and is made up and represented by individuals from all segments of the military community. To become an Advisory Council member, contact the ACS Outreach Program Manager.
The CSC and Advisory Council meeting minutes are posted on the Fort Detrick Installation Extranet at: From the Homepage, click on the "Installation Extranet" link at the bottom right side of the page, then click on "Minutes" on the left side of the next page to access the information.
Army Family Team Building
Army Family Team Building is a volunteer-led organization with a central tenet: provide training and knowledge to spouses and family members to support the total Army effort. Strong families are the pillar of support behind strong soldiers, and AFTB's mission is to educate and train all of America's Army in knowledge, skills, and behaviors designed to prepare our Army families to move successfully into the future.
Family Readiness Group
The Family Readiness Group (FRG) is organized to provide mutual support for a unit's family members. FRG forms the third component of the Army's family support system during deployment. It operates during periods of normal operations, as well, in close coordination with the affiliated unit and, if convenient, with ACS or the Reserve Component Family Program Coordinator's Office.
Mobilization and Deployment Readiness
Mobilization and Deployment Readiness, "Resources for Educating About Deployment and You" prepares soldiers and families for deployment which is an essential component of readiness. As the Army deploys units more frequently, families must be prepared to deal with the stress and family decisions during mobilization, deployment, and reunions.
