Survey helps Air Force target resources, enhance community well-being Published Jan. 19, 2011 31st Fighter Wing Chaplain AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- The Integrated Delivery System Working Group is sponsoring the 2011 Community Assessment Survey of servicemembers, spouses, reservists, spouses of reservists and civilians. This survey provides an opportunity for Air Force community members to make their opinions and needs known. The results of the survey will be used by base leadership and the Air Force to target resources where they are most needed and enhance the well-being of the community. Air Force community members at Air Force bases worldwide, to include Aviano, will be randomly selected to participate in the study. A notification letter that includes a link to the Web-based survey will be sent out to the work e-mail address of each active-duty member selected to participate; spouses will be sent a letter in the mail with the weblink. Participation is crucial to the success of the project; selected servicemembers are strongly urged to take part. "The 2011 Community Assessment Survey is a top priority," said Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Greg Jans, Aviano AB Integrated Delivery System chair. "It is the best way for us to listen to community members and then provide services to help them meet their needs and the needs of their families. It allows them to express their opinions anonymously so participants can respond openly and honestly to issues that affect them every day." Survey responses can directly influence family services and related support activities at local bases and throughout the Air Force. In fact, results from previous Air Force community assessments have impacted the policies and programs that support families at every level of the Air Force, to include: Expanding financial counseling programs to members and their families Developing a user-friendly support network for Air Force single parents Setting up marriage support seminars for junior enlisted members and their spouses "The 2011 Community Assessment Survey provides community members a wonderful opportunity to improve the Air Force Community," said Chaplain Jans. "We hope those selected will do everything they can to respond to the survey as quickly as possible." This year's survey at Aviano AB will be particularly important, said the chaplain. As part of a Department of Defense sponsored initiative, this year's Community Assessment, along with some supplemental questions, will be used to direct additional resources to help service members and families base wide. Base agencies will be working with researchers to ensure that this year's survey results are used to the maximum benefit. For more information regarding the 2011 Community Assessment, call Chaplain Jans at DSN 632-5211.