Volunteering a way of life for BLAZE Team Published April 16, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Danielle Hill 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs COLUMBUS AFB, Miss. -- BLAZE Team members participated in volunteer opportunities this week in honor of National Volunteer Week. National Volunteer Week reflects the power volunteers have to lead by example. Volunteers both encourage those they help and motivate others to help. The theme for this year was "Volunteer to Change the World". BLAZE Team members are no strangers to volunteer work as volunteerism is a year-long event. Airmen are often taking part in highway clean-ups, Habit for Humanity, United Way, Friendship Cemetery clean up, volunteering for on-base events and other events taking place in the local community. Members volunteered to aide in the clean up of several places on base including Freedom Park and the T-37 aircraft display on Highway 45. Enlisted Airmen are introduced to volunteer work as soon as they reach their first duty station. While they are in the First Term Airman's Course, they take part in at least one volunteer opportunity in their two weeks of class. There are also many opportunities for enlisted to become involved including the Airman's Activity Council, Blaze 56, Top 3, Air Force Sergeant's Association, First Sergeant Council and Chief's Group. Officers can become involved with the Company Grade Officers Council. Spouses also have the opportunity to volunteer. Spouses of enlisted can join the Spouses of Stripes and spouses of officers can join the Officer's Spouses' Club. The OSC recognized seven Thrift Shop volunteers at their monthly social April 8. Together they totaled more than 40 years of volunteer service. The Thrift Shop is run completely by volunteers, along with the Airman's Attic. For more information on volunteering opportunities, contact your First Sergeant.
