Retiree volunteers key component of MacDill operations

  • Published
  • By Nick Stubbs
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Thousands are employed at MacDill, but it takes more than those on the payroll to keep such a large operation running smoothly, which is where the largest volunteer operation in the Air Force comes in.

Hundreds of volunteers, most of them retirees, are on the job at any given time at MacDill, those numbers swelling this time of year when retirees wintering in Tampa Bay arive and stay until spring. Without them, things wouldn't be the same for many customers who use heavily volunteer-dependent operations like the medical clinic, the pharmacy, the Airman & Family Readiness Centers and a host of other base services.

"Volunteers are such a vital part of the MacDill and surrounding community," said Sonya Meier, interim volunteer resource manager. "They are able to provide on- and off-base agencies with invaluable experience and knowledge."

Not only do volunteers save MacDill money, they free up active duty members to focus on their core mission.

"Every year, MacDill is able to save hundreds of thousands of dollars by utilizing the skills and experiences of the volunteer population, enabling the active duty members and the civilian employees to focus on other mission essential tasks," said Meier.

For volunteers, it's not a one-way street, and most get as much or more reward from volunteering than they give in their time, said Kathy Eldridge, who has been volunteering at the Airman & Family Resource Center in Brandon for more than six years.

Her story is like many retirees who volunteer in that it is rooted in a desire to give something back to their country and military.

In 2002, Eldridge's husband, a retired Marine, died suddenly. The help from the MacDill A&FRC was so positive and so fast, she vowed to one day volunteer to help the center with its work. When she stopped working and had the time to help, she came aboard as an active volunteer. Today she works as a receptionist at the office, helping others navigate the services offered through the center.

"By helping here I provide the service I got when I needed it," said Eldridge. "This is a give-back situation for me, but I also enjoy staying busy."

Retired from the U.S. Postal Service, Eldridge said she's always been customer-service oriented, which is why volunteering at MacDill is such a good fit. She also gives her time to the American Cancer Society and Meals on Wheels.

"It's about helping people," Eldridge said. "It's very rewarding."

While a large portion of the volunteer force at MacDill is retired, many younger people give their time, as well, said Liz Waters, director of the A&FRC. For them, volunteering can be a real resume booster.

"Volunteering is an excellent way to make a difference in someone's life and use your skills and experience to help and enrich the local community," Water said. "Volunteering can also enhance future employment opportunities.

For our youth it is especially useful when completing application forms (especially college) and is a great way for them to look at possible career choices and gain valuable job experience."