Army Community Service (ACS)

History of Army Community Service

     From the pioneer days to the all-volunteer Army of today, humanitarian concern for the welfare of others has been a foundation of the Army's way of life. Army posts familiar to the pioneers were often isolated and located in hostile and dangerous environments. Seldom located near a civilian community, these protective fortifications had limited and infrequent communication with the outside world.

     The early day Army was a closely knit, distinct, and generally self-sufficient society. The pioneer Army wife knew hardship in her environment, but she established an enviable pattern of personal sacrifice and compassion - still found in the Army spouse of today.

     For years, Army wives operated lending closets, thrift shops, and nurseries; raised funds to help the needy; assisted in emergencies; taught and trained the inexperienced; provided care and comfort to the ill and bereaved; and through a grassroots understanding of the Army community, contributed significantly to its stability. An adverse aspect of these social service activities provided by Army wives was that they often disappeared or stagnated when their originators transferred or left the service.

     Army Community Service (ACS) was designed to eliminate this adverse aspect and provide a flexible framework for operating a viable social services system. Changes in the Army community have been substantial, reflecting the changes in the larger society it serves. However, the most significant impact of these changes has been most apparent since 1940.

     In 1940, the active Army numbered 269,000, of whom only 25 percent were married. The advent of World War II (WWII) rapidly altered this picture. The rapid buildup of U.S. defensive forces and their deployment worldwide had a devastating impact on American Family life. Long separations, lack of communication, meager pay, fear, and reports of casualties brought disruption and insecurity to Army families who shared this experience.

     An essential resource for alleviating the social welfare problems of Soldiers and their Families came in the 1940s—Army Emergency Relief (AER). Funded by donations from the American public and proceeds from the Irving Berlin Broadway hit "This is the Army," AER offices were at Army posts throughout the United States in 1941.

     One large metropolitan AER office, and the only one so established, was in New York City on February 5, 1942. Staffed by military and civilian personnel and many civilian volunteers, this unusual quasi-military organization operated under the supervision of the 1202nd Service Command Unit. In March 1944, the AER office was re-designated as the "Personnel Affairs Branch" but continued its operations with a slightly altered but effective relationship with AER funding.

     Operational until the end of WWII, this organization, through an interesting coincidence, provided the framework for the development of ACS more than 20 years later. In providing assistance, the New York AER not only had access to AER funds but also drew on a network of resources from the Salvation Army, Department of Welfare, Navy Relief, Catholic Charities, and many other civic organizations to ease the problems and hardships of Soldiers and their Families. Civilian psychiatrists, social workers, lawyers, and the police donated their professional expertise to assist in difficult cases, free of charge.

     Then, during a major period of their existence, LT. Emma M. Baird was assigned to the AER and Personnel Affairs Offices as the Allowance and Allotment Officer. This experience formed the background of her planning the structure and organization of a "Family services program, which was to become ACS.

     On July 25, 1965, General Harold K. Johnson, Army Chief of Staff, dispatched a letter to all major commanders announcing the approval and establishment of the ACS. The initial implementation of the new ACS program caused minor confusion due to the almost simultaneous release of various family assistance guidance.

     Army Regulation 608-1, published on November 19, 1965, superseded all previous instructions, and ACS was finally welcomed as a viable and vital Army program. Born in a climate of confusion may be a partial explanation of why many continue to call ACS "Army Community Services." There are innumerable Army community services; however, only one officially designated Army Community Service exists.

     In the early spring of 1966, LTC Emma Baird traveled to Europe to assist commanders in establishing ACS Centers. By 1967, most CONUS installations had initiated ACS Centers. By 1969, 155 ACS Centers and points of contact were established Army-wide. The largest majority of overseas centers were in Germany, but an ACS Center or ACS point of contact was established wherever American troops served.

     Since the initiation of the ACS program, thousands of Army wives have enhanced and improved the lives of fellow members of their Army community. Throughout its history, the volunteers, primarily Army wives, have ensured the success and the support of the ACS program.

     One Army wife who made notable contributions to the development of the ACS program was Mrs. George S. Patton (Joanne). As an early advocate for assistance to military personnel with exceptional family members, Mrs. Patton's input to the success of the Army efforts in this area has been continuous and unstinting.

     Appointed as ACS Volunteer Consultant to the Department of the Army in 1980, Mrs. Patton continued to bring her talent, experience, and wholehearted belief in ACS to benefit Army Families. Her abilities helped achieve meaningful assistance in meeting the needs of exceptional Family members.

     The revised version of AR 608-1 on October 1, 1978, introduced new avenues of accomplishment for this viable program. Budget counseling and debt liquidation, relocation assistance, and an information program at many ACS centers became services offered by ACS. The revised regulation also incorporated the Army Child Advocacy Program (ACAP) into ACS; established the Army Child Support Services Program; established criteria for financial support, personnel functions and duties, and program requirements; and incorporated standards for child health and safety protection at military facilities offering temporary care for children.

     Since the revised publication of AR 608-1 in 1978, additional programs were formed under the ACS umbrella, including:

• The Family Advocacy Program and the Family Member Employment Assistance Program were officially established in 1982.
• In 1988, a Department of Defense Instruction officially established the Relocation Assistance Program, further mandated by Public Law in 1989. In

    In its current structure, ACS consists of the Relocation Assistance Program, the Consumer Affairs and Financial Assistance Program, the Family Member Employment Assistance Program, the Volunteer Program, the Exceptional Family Member Program, the Family Advocacy Program, the Outreach Program, and the Information, Referral, and Follow-up Program.

     On October 7, 1987, LTC (Ret) Emma Marie Baird passed away. The then U.S. Army Community and Family Support Center proposed creating a Memorial Award for Outstanding Volunteers to honor LTC Baird. The Secretary of the Army approved this award on August 29, 1988. Since then, the award has been presented to volunteers who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication and sustained service to Army Community Service. 

     In 1995, ACS established an official mission statement. The mission of the ACS Center is to facilitate the commander's ability to provide comprehensive, coordinated, and responsive services that support the readiness of Soldiers, civilian employees, and their Families.

     Today, 83 ACS Centers worldwide remain an integral part of the Army Family. They support the Army Force Generation Model (ARFORGEN) and unit commanders by identifying quality-of-life concerns and restoring balance by improving predictable standardized services and programs across the Army. ACS supports the ARFORGEN through Family Assistance Centers, Soldier Readiness Processing, Deployment Cycle Support, Operation READY, Family Readiness Groups, Rear Detachments, Military and Family Life Consultants, and the vFRG.

     The core programs and services provided by ACS Centers have grown from its early days to include the Army Family Action Plan, Army Family Team Building, Army OneSource, Army Volunteer Corps, Exceptional Family Member, Family Advocacy, Financial Readiness, Information and Referral, Relocation Readiness, Sexual Assault and Response Program, Soldier and Family Assistance Center, Spouse Employment, Survivor Outreach Services, Transitional Compensation, and Victim Advocacy. ACS continues to grow and evolve to meet the changing needs of the global Army Family.

Eligibility: 

• All Active-duty, Retired Military personnel, and Military Family members.
• Members of the Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve when on Active Duty and their Family members.
• Department of Defense Civilian employees and their Family members.
• Surviving Family members of fallen Military personnel.

ACS Programs

• Army Family Action Plan (AFAP)
• Army Family Team Building (AFTB)
• Army Volunteer Corps (AVC)
• Employment Readiness Program (ERP)
• Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)
• Family Advocacy Program (FAP)
• Financial Readiness Program & Army Emergency Relief (FRP & AE
• Mobilization, Deployment & Stability Support Operations (MB & SSO)
• Relocation Readiness Program (RRP)
• Soldier & Family Assistance Center (SFAC)
• Survivor Outreach Services (SOS)

Dignity and Respect. 
You have the right to be treated with consideration and compassion, and to receive quality services free of discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex/gender, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, physical and/or mental ability, rank, or military status.

Privacy and Security.  
The Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, provides safeguards for the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and similar rights for other PII in electronic, written, and spoken form.  ACS service providers will provide informed consent for the services received.  Authorized disclosures may include the following circumstances:

• When you sign a written release of information.
• When a clear and immediate danger to you or to others exists.
• When there is known or suspected child abuse or elder abuse.
• When there is known, or suspected domestic abuse not covered by restricted reporting policy.
• When ordered by a court of law.

Access to records.  
ACS uses an electronic case management system to track information on services provided.  To request a copy of your record, speak with an ACS representative to determine local policy for release of information.

Right of Self-determination. 
We recognize the uniqueness of every individual and Family.  Your ACS service provider will work with you to develop an Individual Service Plan tailored to meet your needs.

Refusal of Services. 
ACS services are voluntary; you may terminate services at any time unless Command directed.

Grievances, alternative services, and referrals. 
You have the right to request a different ACS service provider, and alternative options regarding resource referrals to meet the goals of your Individual Service Plan.  If at any time you are dissatisfied with ACS services, please ask to see the Program Manager or ACS Director.

ACS Customer’s Responsibilities:

Respect and Consideration of other customers and ACS staff is essential.

Adherence to your Individual Service Plan by following through with resource referrals on a timely basis and informing your ACS service provider regarding concerns or changes in your needs.

Voice your concerns or disagreements with recommended interventions, referrals, or Individual Service Plan, and allow time for adjustments if required.

Arrive on time for scheduled appointments and cancel or change appointments at least two (2) working days in advance.

Maintain accurate information and records by reporting changes in your address or phone number and responding to calls or letters to the best of your ability.

Provide feedback on the quality and effectiveness of services and resource referrals.

Want to take charge of your finances? The Army's Financial Readiness Program (FRP) and Consumer Advocacy Services can help with comprehensive educational and counseling programs. Learn about debt, consumer advocacy and protection, money management, credit, financial planning, insurance, and consumer issues. Through classroom training and individual counseling, participants can learn how to save and invest money, establish savings goals, eliminate debt, and save for emergencies.

We offer:

• Financial Readiness Program (FRP). FRP provides comprehensive educational and counseling programs in personal financial readiness. The program covers indebtedness, consumer advocacy and protection, money management, credit, financial planning, insurance, and consumer issues. Other services offered include mandatory financial literacy, financial planning for transitioning Soldiers, financial counseling for deployed Soldiers and their Families, and the Department of Defense Family Subsistence Supplemental Allowance Program. 
• Army Emergency Relief (AER). AER is the US Army's own nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating financial distress in the force. AER provides grants and zero-interest loans to active-duty and retired Soldiers and their Families. AER has supported over 4 million Soldiers since 1942. AER offices are conveniently located at installations around the world. Visit ArmyEmergencyRelief.org to learn more.
• Online Support and Education. Go to Financial Frontline for self-service financial literacy education and help.
   

Additional financial resources for Soldiers and their Families:

• Blended Retirement System. The Blended Retirement System (BRS) combines elements of the legacy retirement system with benefits similar to those offered in many civilian 401(k) plans. Get smart on retirement benefits with the Army Retirement Services Office and Joint Knowledge Online Training.
• Financial Readiness Affiliates
•  Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The TSP is a federal government-sponsored retirement savings and investment plan available to both federal civilian employees and members of the uniformed services. The TSP offers the same type of savings and tax benefits that many private corporations offer their employees under 401(k) plans. The retirement income a TSP account provides will depend on working-year contributions and the earnings on those contributions. Learn more at the official Thrift Savings Plan website.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The CFPB makes markets for consumer financial products and services work for Americans — whether they are applying for a mortgage, choosing among credit cards, or using any number of other consumer financial products. The CFPB gives consumers the information they need to understand the terms of their agreements with financial companies. Learn more about the CFPB, visit the CFPB on-demand forum and tools website, or order free CFPB publications.

For more information about ACS's Financial Readiness Program click here.

Insurance

National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)

Saving and Investing

Financial Regulatory Authority

Thrift Savings Plan

Military Saves

Federal Financial Literacy and Education Commission

Consumer Education Information

Consumer Finance Protection Bureau

Federal Trade Commission

Bankrate, INC

Federal Government Consumer Information

Military Consumer Complaints

National Do Not Call Registry

Moving is a part of life for Soldiers, civilian government employees and their Families. The Army Community Service Relocation Readiness Program is here to help with a comprehensive support system, whether it’s your first move or the last of many. We have all kinds of information and resources to help you and your family navigate your next military move. 

Your first stop should be your local Army Community Service to meet with a Relocation Readiness Program Manager who can get you started.

Other Relocation Readiness Program resources include:

• Pre-Arrival information: Installations and surrounding areas provide information through Military OneSource, which also provides links to military installations.
• Plan My Move: The Plan My Move pages on Military OneSource simplify the moving process. You can create a customized calendar based on your needs and schedule and find driving directions and information about entitlements and out-of-pocket costs, schools and other local community resources. 
• Household Goods Lending Closet: Installations keep basic household items for you to borrow for up to 30 days to help you get settled. At a minimum, you’ll find things like basic kitchenware, highchairs, irons, ironing boards, play pens and transformers if appropriate.
• Post-Move Newcomer Orientation: Provides information about your new installation, including housing, education, healthcare, and more. 
• Welcome Packet: Most installations will provide you with a welcome packet that has maps (both on- and off-post) and important local contact information.
• Individual Counseling: Your Relocation Readiness Program Manager can address specific issues with you one-on-one and give guidance and suggestions to help resolve any problems that may come along with your move. 
• Sponsor: A sponsor is somebody from a Soldier’s new unit who is specially trained to help you settle into your new location. Most installations also have a Youth Sponsorship Program through Child and Youth Services. 
• Citizenship and Immigration Services: Your Relocation Readiness Program Manager can act as a liaison when Families seek guidance on the citizenship and residency application process.

If you’re moving to an installation outside the continental United States (OCONUS), we have special relocation resources for you, including:

• Host Nation Orientation: Can help you better understand the local culture, language, transportation, and tourism offerings.
• Re-Entry Workshops: Provided for transferees returning from overseas to the U.S. You’ll get information about the PCS process and procedures, finance entitlements, shipping household goods, port call, Family travel, legal assistance for claims, and shipping your automobiles and pets. 
• Foreign Language and Foreign Cultural Information: You can borrow foreign language CDs and Rosetta Stone Learner Online to learn the language of the country where you will reside overseas. Army Community Service (ACS) centers located overseas can help you translate bills and letters and may also offer language classes of the host nation. 
• Mandatory Overseas Orientations: If you’re making a PCS overseas (Europe or Pacific), this workshop focuses on everything you’ll need to know about life overseas, including geography, climate, government, economy, language, recreation, family life, food, customs, and courtesies.

We also have support groups that offer special help if you need it:

• Hearts Apart (Waiting Families Program): If you or your spouse are serving an unaccompanied restricted PCS tour or extended temporary duty assignment (TDY), this support group discusses stresses and concerns, and shares coping skills.
• Services for Multicultural Families: Provide information, assistance and support to all foreign-born spouses. There are also group activities like cooking classes, arts and crafts, and language classes.

More helpful links:

• Find information about your new installation.
• Find information about the Detroit Arsenal HERE
• Have you been assigned as a Sponsor?
  • eSponsorship Application & Training Tools 
  • eSponsorship Application & Training (eSAT)

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) provides long-term support to surviving Families of fallen Soldiers. Our goal is to reassure survivors that they remain valued members of the Army Family. 

The SOS program connects you with people who can help. Our services include grief counseling, financial counseling, benefits coordination, support groups, and garrison and surrounding area events. 

After a loved one is lost, unresolved issues or questions may surface months or years afterward. The Army is dedicated to fulfilling its promise by providing support to surviving Families. Our financial counselors aid surviving Families through investment and estate planning education, and our support coordinators provide long-term support. SOS can help you navigate the details.

SOS delivers services at garrisons and communities closest to where Families live. Regardless of your loved one’s component or branch, duty status, location, or manner of death, SOS will provide dedicated outreach and support when and as long as you desire.

SOS also honors survivors with Gold Star and Next of Kin lapel buttons. They are symbols of your sacrifice, widely recognized throughout the country. Find more about Gold Star and Next of Kin lapel buttons here. 

The Gold Star and Surviving Family Member (GSSFM) Representative is the Army advocate for surviving Family members – and any survivor can contact an Army GSSFM Representative directly any time for any reason. These representatives are available to provide support and address complaints by spouses and other dependents of deceased service members regarding casualty assistance or receipt of benefits authorized by law. If you have questions or concerns about casualty assistance or receipt of benefits, your GSSFM Representative can help.

You can contact a GSSFM representative at (586) 282-0482.

Find more resources for survivors here. 

The U.S. Army Family Advocacy Program (FAP) helps Soldiers and Families recognize and meet the unique challenges of military lifestyles. Our services include seminars, workshops, counseling, and intervention to help strengthen Army Families, enhance resiliency and relationship skills, and improve quality of life.

We are also dedicated to helping Soldiers and Families with the complex challenges related to domestic abuse, child abuse, and neglect. We focus on prevention, education, prompt reporting, investigation, intervention, and treatment. 

If you need help, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at + 1(800)799-7233. You should also contact your installation’s Family Advocacy Program for more information.

Our additional programs within the Family Advocacy Program help with specific needs:

Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs): MFLCs are a key outreach service to Soldiers and Families. Enhanced community Family support services offer licensed clinical social workers and psychologists to address various issues that Soldiers and Families face before, during, and after deployment.

New Parent Support Program (NPSP): Expecting parents and parents with children ages 0-3 have special challenges, and NPSP has tools to meet them. Programs including home visits and parenting classes help caregivers learn to cope with stress, isolation, deployments, reunions, and the everyday demands of parenthood.

Transitional Compensation (TC) Program for Abused Dependents: Under a congressionally mandated program, abused dependents of military personnel may be eligible for up to three years of benefits and entitlements, including temporary financial compensation, medical care, and commissary and exchange privileges.

Victim Advocacy Program (VAP): Victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse have round-the-clock access to services, including emergency assistance, information, referrals, and ongoing support in accessing medical, behavioral health, legal, and law enforcement services on and off garrisons. Victim Advocates will discuss the option of restricted and unrestricted reports.

The Employment Readiness Program (ERP) offers resources to help with your career plan and job search. Whether you are a service member thinking about a college degree, a military spouse wanting to connect with a network of military-friendly employers or a parent hoping for a smooth school transition for your child we’re here to help.

Military OneSource offers practical information and resources for pursuing education goals and achieving career aspirations. Take the next steps to make your education and career ambitions come true.

Education & Employment for Spouses - Military OneSource for Spouses

Military OneSource provides comprehensive education and career guidance, support and resources to military spouses pursuing employment or an advanced degree. Read fresh content related to career exploration; education, training and licensing; and employment readiness and career connections. Check out tips and strategies for military spouses that help match your interests, skills and goals with a degree or occupation that’s compatible with your mobile military life.

 Spouse Education and Career Opportunities eNewsletter is a A quarterly publication designed to provide military spouses and Military Spouse Employment Program partners with current information and resources. SECO eNewsletter HERE.

Education & Employment for Service Members - Military OneSource for Service Members

You’ve already shown you have the discipline it takes to commit, persevere and follow through on your mission. You also have what it takes to pursue other goals, including a degree or career advancement.

• Learn how to transfer Post-9/11 GI Bill Education Benefits to your dependents.
• Tips for transition and career success.
• Army Continuing Education System.
• Military Academic Advancement Program
• And more!

Education & Employment for Youth & Teens - Military OneSource for Youth and Teens

Here, you’ll find ways to help your youth and teens foster a love for learning, develop life skills that extend far beyond the classroom, help them transition to new schools, and prepare for college and the workplace. Tap into the support and resources of your military community to help you raise smart, responsible children.

The Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) is your platform to voice quality-of-life issues, feedback, ideas, and suggestions. It’s the best way to let Army leadership know about what works, what doesn’t, and how you think problems can be resolved. We give active and reserve component Soldiers, Army Civilians, retirees, survivors, and Family members a powerful tool to help identify issues and concerns and shape your standard of living. 

Submit an issue or suggestion at your local ACS office or through the Issue Management System (IMS). The Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) Issue Management System (IMS) allows registered and unregistered users to submit online issues regarding their communities or other aspects of Army life. Issues are reviewed and managed by AFAP staff, and IMS can be used to track the status of your issue and view others that are currently under review.

Army Family Team Building (AFTB) is a Family training and readiness program that provides participants with a better understanding of Army culture, as well as the skills and resources needed to become resilient, self-sufficient members of the military community.

Whether you’re new to the Army or want to brush up on skills, get a leg up with AFTB. This training program takes you step by step through Army culture, connects you to helpful resources, and empowers you to become a self-reliant member of the Army Family. AFTB training moves through three phases:

• AFTB Building Personal Growth. Learn how to improve your personal relationships and communication and stress-management skills. Discover how teams form and grow, how to solve problems, and how to resolve personal conflict. You’ll also learn about Army traditions, customs, courtesies, and protocol.
• AFTB Military Knowledge. Learn about Army life and how to maneuver through daily challenges, understand Army acronyms, use community resources, attain better financial readiness, and appreciate the impacts of the Army mission on daily life.
• AFTB Leadership Knowledge. Thrive in the Army and civilian life by expanding leadership skills, polishing communication techniques, and learning to mentor others into leadership positions. Learn how to find your leadership style, run an effective meeting, manage group conflict, and coach and mentor others.

AFTB helps Families and individuals by:

• Conducting specialized training, making Soldiers, Families, and Civilians more flexible, adaptive, and capable.
• Enhancing personal growth and professional development by leveraging technology and an adaptive curriculum to meet the needs of the transforming military.
• Employing resources to build and strengthen enduring partnerships, resulting in resilient, strong communities.

AFTB uses the Online Learning Management System (OLMS), which requires internet access for the computer-based training. Participants can train virtually anywhere, and they typically receive a certificate (which may be used for promotion points, depending on the course) after completion.

The Army Volunteer Corps (AVC) program provides opportunities for service members, Civilians, Family members, and retirees to volunteer with nonprofit organizations and support their local communities. We embrace existing volunteer programs, unite all volunteers who support Soldiers and Families, (including Active Duty, National Guard and Army Reserve), and formalize the Army’s commitment to volunteerism. The AVC Bill of Rights and Responsibilities and Army Volunteer Corps Philosophy on Volunteerism are foundational documents that show the Army’s dedication to its volunteers.

Volunteering helps both you and your community. When you participate with AVC, you will:

• Gain a sense of satisfaction.
• Learn about the Army, the military, and your community.
• Acquire new skills and expand old ones.
• Obtain work experience.
• Build new friendships and become a cohesive part of a team.

Volunteer Management Information System (VMIS). VMIS is the online platform that helps manage volunteerism in military communities. Within VMIS, volunteers can apply for volunteer opportunities, record and track volunteer hours, and manage their volunteer service record. Administrators can recruit volunteers online, manage military community volunteerism, and produce reports on program statistics.

Volunteer Forms. Contact the Army Volunteer Coordinator at your local Army Community Service Center to register and learn about volunteer opportunities across the Army. When you do, you will be asked to complete forms including:

• Volunteer Agreement. This form acknowledges volunteer agreement before an individual is allowed to volunteer.
• Volunteer Service Record. This form records essential background information on volunteers to help determine qualifications and task assignments.

Community Information Services (Information and Referral) provides Soldiers and Families with timely, comprehensive information on both military and community resources that will assist in meeting basic needs and improve quality of life.  

Army OneSource (AOS) Community Support Coordinators (Community Outreach) Identify and build relationships with community service agencies, promoting partnerships with the Army and additional resources to military service providers and geographically dispersed Soldiers and their Families.

Virtual Family Readiness Groups (vFRG)  Keeping Families up to date has never been easier! A vFRG has the major functions of standard Soldier and Family Readiness Groups and serves the needs of geographically dispersed active and Reserve units and Families.

Outreach Services Some members of the Army community could use a little more support, and that’s what Outreach Services gives. We focus on geographically or socially isolated Families, first-term Soldiers and Families, geographically separated Families, newly arrived Soldiers and Families, single-parent Families, and other Soldiers and Families identified by a needs assessment.

Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Program (SHARP)

The Army’s Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program is the Army’s integrated, proactive effort to end sexual harassment and sexual assault within our ranks. Sexual harassment and sexual assault have no place in the Army. If you have been the victim of sexual harassment or sexual assault, you have a voice, you have rights, and we’re here to help. 

The Army’s SHARP Program also:

• Permeates the Army structure from the Pentagon down to the individual Soldier level.
• Has full-time staff at the brigade level and higher.
• Promotes cultural change across the Army, with a vision toward a culture of discipline and respect in which Soldiers intervene in sexual harassment and sexual assault to protect one another.
• Includes a comprehensive effort to educate leaders and Soldiers about sexual harassment and sexual assault.
• Employs a concrete training program that teaches Soldiers to be alert to serial offender tactics, to intervene to stop incidents and disrupt offenders, and where and how to seek help.
• Provides commanders with the essential resources, education, and training they need to succeed in bringing an end to sexual harassment and sexual assault in the Army.

We have certified Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARCs) and Victim Advocates (VAs) available 24/7 to help with reporting, and support prevention, training, and awareness efforts. 

If you need help now:

Call the Safe Helpline +1(877) 995-5247

Text: 55-247 (inside the U.S.)

Text: +1(202)470-5546 (outside the U.S.)

For more information about SHARP, visit SHARP (army.mil)

More Helpful Resources:

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 
• Center for Sex Offender Management 
• Men Can Stop Rape 
• National Center on Domestic & Sexual Violence (military resources) 
• National Sexual Violence Resource Center
• Rape Abuse & Incest National Network
• Rape & Sexual Assault: Reporting to Police & Medical Attention, 1992-2000, Bureau of Justice Statistics, US DoJ
• Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner/Sexual Assault Response Team

 *No official U.S. Army or Department of Defense endorsement implied by use of external links

The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) provides comprehensive support to Family members with special needs. An Exceptional Family Member is a Family member with any physical, emotional, developmental, or intellectual disorder that requires special treatment, therapy, education, training, or counseling, and meets the eligibility criteria. EFMP pertains to active-duty Soldiers, US Army Reserve Soldiers in the Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Program, and Army National Guard AGR personnel serving under authority of 10 USC or 32 USC. Department of the Army Civilians do not enroll in the program.

EFMP takes an all-inclusive approach to coordinating military and civilian community, educational, medical, housing, and personnel services to help Soldiers and their Families with special needs. Enrollment in EFMP includes a wide array of benefits, detailed in the EFMP Benefits Fact Sheet.

EFMP enrollment does not adversely affect promotions, schools, or assignments. EFMP information is not made available to selection boards.

Soldiers with Exceptional Family Members are required to register for EFMP and keep enrollment information current. That way, Family needs will be considered during the OCONUS assignments process. If you’re eligible for EFMP services, Family members must be screened and enrolled when they accompany authorized Soldiers on OCONUS assignments. Screenings include a medical records review for all Family members and developmental screening for all children 72 months and younger. (Special education needs are considered only in assignments outside the United States. Assignments within the US and its territories are not based on the educational needs of children.)

For more information about EFMP and helpful articles about the program, look at the Enterprise EFMP site. After that, contact the installation EFMP manager at your local Army Community Service (ACS) office. Find the EFMP service near you. To learn more about medical enrollment, see the Program Overview.
 

EFMP Resources

Here are some helpful resources for EFMP Families.

(Government Links)

• Systems Navigators. Systems navigators are ACS EFMP staff members available on most Army installations. They assist EFMP Families with navigating through the available systems of care.​​​​
• EFMP Newsletter. The Exceptional Advocate is the DoD’s EFMP newsletter, which includes helpful information and resources.
• Military OneSource. Military OneSource’s EFMP & Me tool allows Families to explore the details of EFMP benefits and processes.
• DirectSTEP. DirectSTEP® eCourses are available for free to Soldiers and Family Members, Army EFMP staff, and Special Education staff associated with teaching military children. DirectSTEP® eCourses teach staff, parents, and educators how to handle critical education issues to obtain positive outcomes.
• Respite Care Support. The Army’s Respite Care Support services provide a temporary rest period for Family members responsible for regular care of persons with disabilities. Care may be provided in the EFM respite care user’s home.

(Non-Government Links, No Endorsement Implied)

• Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR). CPIR serves as a central resource of information and products to the community of Parent Training Information (PTI) Centers and Community Parent Resource Centers, so they can focus their efforts on serving Families of children with disabilities. 
• American Camp Association (ACA). The ACA is a community of camp professionals who join together to share their knowledge and experience and ensure the quality of camp programs, including those for Exceptional Family Members.

Army OneSource is a website that provides a network of services to support Active, Reserve and Guard Soldiers and their Families regardless of their component or geographical location.   

The Army OneSource website provides access to information on standardized programs and services at installations, Army National Guard Family Assistance Centers, and Army Reserve Centers for the geographically dispersed.  

Through established community partnerships, Army OneSource works with sister services to increase and sustain support to those not living near a garrison.  Army Soldiers and Family members may access programs and services through three primary ways:  

1. A web-based portal 
2. Traditional brick and mortar establishments at garrisons 
3. Through partnerships with community and government organizations  

To learn more about resources and services to support Soldiers and their Families, visit Army OneSource.

Suicide Prevention Program

Helpful Tips and Resources for Prevention

Suicide Prevention Month is observed each September, and the Army’s theme this year is “You Are a Light in Somebody’s Life.” In support of the Department of Defense’s year-round prevention efforts, the Army Suicide Prevention Program provides resources for prevention, intervention and support to those impacted by the loss of a loved one to suicide. The Army strives to develop healthy and resilient Soldiers, reduce stigma and build awareness of suicide and related behaviors.

Suicide is when a person harms themself with the goal of ending their life and die as a result. Suicide is often preventable. Know the warning signs so you can help saves lives.

What to Look For
Leaders, Soldiers, Family and other community members should watch for these warning signs that someone may be considering suicide:

• Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves.
• Talking about feeling empty or hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or feeling that there are no solutions.
• Feeling unbearable emotional or physical pain.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Giving away important possessions.
• Saying goodbye to friends and family.
• Putting affairs in order, such as making a will.
• Taking great risks that could lead to death, such as driving extremely fast.
• Talking or thinking about death often.

Other serious warning signs that someone may be at risk for attempting suicide include:

• Displaying extreme mood swings, suddenly changing from very sad to very calm or happy
• Making a plan or looking for ways to kill themselves, such as searching for lethal methods online, stockpiling pills, or buying a gun.
• Talking about feeling great guilt or shame.
• Using alcohol or drugs more often.
• Acting anxious or agitated.
• Changing eating or sleeping habits.
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.

Intervention

Thoughtful probing may prevent a Soldier or loved one from attempting to take their life. By asking questions, you are building a connection—a key protective factor in intervention and suicide prevention.  Questions also help all parties to establish an understanding of the risk. Direct questions about suicide do not increase suicidal ideation and may actually decrease it.

Questions to Ask

• Are you having thoughts of suicide?
• If so, how would you do it?
• Do you have access to the means to carry out your plan?
• When would you do it?

Be alert and engage with a Soldier or Family member before they become overwhelmed by life’s stressors and risk factors.

Training and Education Resources

The Army conducts annual suicide prevention training for all Soldiers using the Ask, Care, Escort (ACE) training model to increase awareness of risk factors, warning signs and available resources, as well as encourage intervention. When someone needs help, remember the following.

1. Ask if the person is thinking about harming themself.
2. Care about the person by listening and reassuring them that immediate help is available.
3. Escort and encourage proactive use of resources.
    

For ACE training resources, visit https://www.armyresilience.army.mil/suicide-prevention/pages/about.html.

Other Suicide Prevention Resources

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential support for people in distress 24/7. You can access by:

·       Calls inside the continental U.S.:

• Dial 988 and press 1 for the Military Crisis Line
  • Calls outside the continental U.S. (OCONUS):
• Europe - call 00800 1273 8255 or DSN 118
• Korea - call 0808 555 118 or DSN 118
• In the Philippines, dial #MYVA or 02-8550-3888 and press 7
  • Text: 838255
• Chat: scan this QR code (https://988lifeline.org/chat/)

Military OneSource is the Department of Defense’s 24/7 gateway to trusted information, resources and confidential help. 

Postvention:

What do you do after an issue is identified and a Soldier returns to duty?

• Check in - Check in on the Soldier, keeping their privacy in mind.
• Stay in touch - Make an effort to periodically reach out to the Soldier.
• Show your support - You and your commanding officers play a role in suicide prevention by showing your support for the Soldier as they return to duty.
•  

Our Responsibility

Suicide is not a normal response to stress. Suicidal thoughts or actions are a sign of extreme distress and should not be ignored. If these warning signs apply to you or someone you know, get help as soon as possible, particularly if the behavior is new or has increased recently. We have the responsibility to “Be a Light in Somebody’s Life.”

#BeThere for that person and #ConnectToProtect.

Need additional resources? Visit the sites below for additional support. 

• Army Family Web Portal
• Military Installations
• Military OneSource
• Financial Resources
• Financial Resources for Survivors

Return to the armymwr.com ACS homepage.

Contact ACS

Detroit Arsenal - 1+(586) 282-6960