IWAKUNI, Japan -- In an effort to assist local schools with basic needs, Station chaplains have designed a partnership program for service members involving 16 preschools in the Iwakuni area. "Earlier this year, the (chaplains) put out a feeler around the Iwakuni area to see if any schools would have an interest in partnering with individuals at (Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni), to have an ongoing relationship with people on base," said Lt. Stephen Coates, Station protestant chaplain. "About 16 preschools responded. These schools are primarily for children whose parents both work. We've asked them what we can do, and they have responded according to their needs." According to Cmdr. Donald P. Fix, MCAS Iwakuni command chaplain, the chaplain's office will set up a date to meet with an area school for those interested and determine what they can do over the course of a year. Throughout the year, a Japanese liaison at the office will notify the responsible command element of any special issues that arise. "Our hope is to find a department or work center that would like to adopt a particular school," said Fix. "These 16 schools have been divided between (Marine Aircraft Group 12) and the sister squadrons." Coates said that visiting the children is a rewarding experience for all involved. "I've had a chance to visit three of the schools myself," he added. "It's been a pleasure. The children are very friendly and very fun." According to Coates, the needs vary depending on the school. Some schools want a few people to come in and teach basic English. A few are looking for a little physical labor. Others are looking for special appearances at school functions. "This is a great way to reach out in a thoroughly positive manner," said Coates. "It's never a negative consequence to do good to other people. This is an opportunity afforded us by the Iwakuni school district to reach out with genuine American generosity to young children." For more information or to arrange a visitation with a local school, call Noriko Yamada at the Station chaplain's office at 253-3371.