What is the Key Volunteer Network?
The Key Volunteer Network:
Serves as a communication link between the unit and its families
Assists in developing and maintaining a sense of community within the Marine Corps Unit
Is a reliable source of information and referral
The Key Volunteer Network operates in support of and under the direction of a Marine unit's Commanding Officer, with focus on areas which will benefit the families of that particular unit. Key Volunteers complete a standardized training course and serve in a network with other appointed and trained Key Volunteers and an active duty Family Readiness Officer.
What does the Key Volunteer Network do?
Typical duties of the Key Volunteer Network include: welcoming incoming families, accurately passing specific information from the CO to families, maintaining current rosters, providing accurate information and referrals when needed, and offering moral support during difficult times.
The KVN may sponsor unit activities, publish a newsletter, and help with other unit activities as directed by the CO.
Each Family Service Center provides standardized Key Volunteer Training. This interesting and educational training is open to all spouses of active duty Marines and those serving with Marines, whether or not they wish to serve in the Key Volunteer Network. Certificates are presented to all who complete the training. Attending the training is a good way to meet other spouses who share the Marine Corps bond.
Key Volunteer Training is required for those serving in the Network.
You are invited to attend Key Volunteer Training. To receive a training schedule for your area, phone the number listed below.
What is your role in the Key Volunteer Network?
The Commanding Officer (CO) oversees the Key Volunteer Network (KVN) and appoints a Family Readiness Officer (FRO) and all Key Volunteers for a specific period of time.
The Family Readiness Officer is an active duty member of the unit who serves as the communication link between the KVN and the CO.
The Key Volunteer Coordinator is the spouse of an active duty member of the unit who coordinates the work of the KVN and serves as the Key Volunteer's link with the FRO and the CO.
The Key Volunteers are spouses of members of the unit who serve as the direct contact link with the families to which they are assigned.
Family Readiness is the responsibility of each Marine; active involvement in the KVN ensures that families are equipped with the information and resources necessary to make good decisions. It is also a valuable tool which should be used to assist in handling unexpected situations.
A Key Volunteer must be:
SUPPORTIVE OF THE USMC AND THE CORE VALUES OF THE CORPS:
COURAGE
HONOR
COMMITMENT
A Key Volunteer should also be:
CARING
COMPASSIONATE
MATURE
A GOOD LISTENER
WILLING TO ADHERE TO STRICT RULES OF CONFIDENTIALITY
A POSITIVE ROLE MODEL
PATIENT
Key Volunteer Training covers:
The organization of the Marine Corps
The Key Volunteer Network structure
Roles and responsibilities of Key Volunteers
Communication skills
Organizational skills
Resources available through the Marine Corps and local community
Key Volunteer Enrichment Classes may include
(but are not limited to):
Computer Training
Professional Image Development
Group Dynamics
If you are interested in joining the Key Volunteer Network, or would like more information, please contact the Key Volunteer Readiness Instructor, Bernadette Scheetz, at
466-5779,
The Key Volunteer Center is located at "C" Street, Bldg. 295, Wing 5
Some of the resources available through the Key Volunteers Network:
Video Phones - these can be used by families whose Marine spouse is away on deployment. The remote unit goes with the deploying spouse, and the home unit hooks up to a 19" television (also available through KVN,) allowing family members to see and hear their loved ones on special occasions, such as birthdays, graduations, promotions, anniversaries, or births. The video phone unit hooks up to regular or DSN phone lines.
Computers - The KV center has four computers with software for creating newsletters and graphics. All the computers have internet and email access. Also, A high speed black and white printer, a color printer, and a color copier are available.
Meeting Space - The KV center has a child play area and classroom setup, and also a conference table, for use by Key Volunteers for meetings, training, and social activities.
Please contact the Key Volunteer Center if you are interested in using any of our equipment or facilities.