MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The Family Housing Office is looking for volunteers to participate in an innovative program aimed at improving the quality of life aboard the Station for the more than 700 families residing in family housing.
The new Family Housing Advisory Board will call on the help of residents to not only recognize potential or existing problems, but also come up with recommendations for improving them.
"What we want to do is set up a group of residents and housing staff to work hand-in-hand to resolve issues in the community before they turn into problems," said Sally Gilmour, Family Housing Office manager.
According to Gilmour, Iwakuni has tried a variety of programs in the past but hopes to have even greater success with the advisory board.
"We've had other programs such as block manager and building manager," said Gilmour, "but this way we're working directly with the residents, and we hope to receive a lot of feedback."
Gilmour stated that getting ideas from residents is not a problem, however, finding volunteers from each section of housing has proven to be more difficult.
"At the moment only three people have signed up to help out," said Gilmour. "Getting volunteers is extremely important because we can't start the advisory board until we get players from each part of the community. We can't have some neighborhoods represented and not others. Every area has to participate."
Rules also forbid residents from representing someone else's neighborhood. Those living in the Monzen area cannot represent a Northside tower because the issues might be different. Fortunately, word of mouth has brought this issue to light for a few residents.
"I found out about the advisory board at the last town hall meeting," said Jodie Crow, advisory board vol-
unteer. "I figured if I wanted to keep making recommendations for the community, I'd better be willing to contribute some of my time to help out. Whether you're a Marine or civilian, everyone should try and help out, because it's everyone's community."
"I know a lot of people feel it's a wonderful idea and want to see it happen, but we're going to have to get people serious and step up to the plate. I think it will be very rewarding for those who participate," said Gilmour.
"If people don't step up, it'll die on the table. Everyone right now in the community has the chance to be the first to create this board and show how influential and effective it will be," she added. "People who get involved now can make sure it's done right and in the best possible manner toward our community."
For more information about the Family Housing Advisory Board or to volunteer, call the Family Housing Office at 253-6817.