AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- The Wyvern Refuge reopened with a “Cupcake Kick-off,” Oct. 25, 2019.
The event included free cupcakes, refreshments, corn-hole, videogames, exclusive music playlist by DJ Usita, and pumpkin painting.
The Wyvern Refuge has made some noteworthy improvements.
“We’ve purchased new furniture and video game systems (PS4, Switch & Xbox), including a [virtual reality] system,” said U.S. Air Force Captain Tara Bauer, 31st Fighter Wing Chaplain at Aviano Air Base, Italy.
Not only has the chapel invested over $17,000 in new equipment and furniture, but they have also recently established a new leadership council, and prioritized dedicated staff and organization to provide the highest quality facility and events for all Airmen.
“We are building a community in which Airmen feel welcomed and connected,” said Bauer.
The 31st FW Refuge is a place where Airmen can connect with one another, and even reconnect with themselves.
“Airmen are leading and connecting with other Airmen forming a tight community,” said Bauer. Sometimes people are lonely or they don’t feel like they have anyone in which to turn, talk, or connect to. We’re here with a welcoming place for Airmen.”
The Refuge may also be a place to network and learn about the hard work other Airmen do.
“This is a place where Airmen (E-1 to E-4) in the dorms or living off-base can belong and have fun,” said Bauer. “We’d also like the Wyvern Refuge to be a place of professional networking where Airmen from different career fields can mingle and gain knowledge.”
If an Airman would like to make themselves, their unit, the Wing and the Air Force better, they can join the Wyvern Refuge Council.
“The Wyvern Refuge Council help Airmen strengthen leadership skills, sharpen professional traits, and enhance community integration as well as promote Airman’s spiritual, moral, and character development,” said Bauer. “The council is primarily composed of Airmen (E-1 to E-4), but anyone committed to serving Airmen is welcome to join.”
Finally, the Wyvern Refuge is currently planning various events through December and the upcoming year.
The next free event, “Smash Brothers Tournament,” is scheduled Nov. 1, 2019 at 6 p.m. it will include a video game competition and pizza.
“We’re excited and we’re going to keep improving the Wyvern Refuge,” said Bauer. “If you have ideas, please share them because we hope you’ll be pumped about it as well. For the most up to date information or to contact us, follow us on Facebook at Wyvern Refuge.”