AADD Is Waiting For Your Call

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt Chad R. Gann
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- --  Quick! What's the number to Airmen Against Drunk Driving? Not sure? Flip your AFI license over and BAM! there it is; one step closer to a safer Air Force community.

AADD has been a fixture at Aviano for years, but recently changes have brought AADD back into the spotlight. Reenergized and focused on saving Aviano Airmen from being involved in costly mistakes, AADD is available on weekend and holiday nights from midnight to 5 am.

"We're waiting for your call" said AADD president Airman First Class Candice Humes, a 724th Air Mobility Squadron passenger service representative, "all you have to do is pick up the phone."

AADD operates out of Bldg. 1424, third floor dayroom, commonly known as "The Refuge". The comfortable lounge boasts couches, three TVs, DVD players, games, computers with an active internet connection, and a wireless connection for laptops. And thanks to a little help from the 31st Communications Squadron, volunteering from your office as a team effort is easy. "I can have the AADD phones directed to ring directly in your office if you don't want to work out of 'The Refuge'," said Airman Humes.

Volunteer teams consist of one CQ position, and two, two-person teams of a driver and shotgun rider. At a minimum, AADD needs at least five volunteers per night. Airman Humes also challenges the two driving teams to see how many passengers they pick up in a night. She's looking to encourage a little squadron rivalry as well.

"I'd really like to see offices or flights volunteer for a night as a team," said Airman Humes, "It encompasses the base more to see squadrons or flights vying for the most 'saves'."

Driving or working the central desk isn't the only way to support AADD. "We're currently seeking your old cell phones. If you upgrade to a new model, or are PCSing out, AADD would love your old phones," requested Airman Humes.

The organization is also looking to migrate the information from their current Web site to their new location on Sharepoint. Individuals interested in helping to update the information, or with a phone they would like to donate, should contact Airman Candice Humes directly at 632-7680.

A "Motown Mixer" is taking place 7 p.m. February 1 at the La Bella Vista Club. AADD along with the African American Heritage Committee are hosting the party featuring free admission, great music, free food, and free rides home courtesy of the AADD executive committee.

AADD may have been plodding along safely for years, but it's certainly headed for bigger, more productive nights.
"If I can get you to volunteer, even for just one evening, I'll get you to come back again," Airman Humes said. "You'll see just how valuable our organization is to the Aviano community, and the distinct difference you've made."