Wing seeks volunteers for Key Spouse program Published May 30, 2013 By Bryan Magaña 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- The 419th Fighter Wing is looking for volunteers for its Key Spouse program. Spearheaded by Hill's Airman and Family Readiness Center, the Key Spouse program is designed to enhance readiness, develop a sense of Air Force community, and help make long deployments less difficult for Airmen and their families. "Key spouses keep families connected and in the know," said Tech. Sgt. Sarah Hanych, Readiness NCO at the readiness center. Units typically need one key spouse for every 100 members, but the 1,100-member wing currently has only five volunteers, Hanych said. "We're working to get the Key Spouse program ramped up and in full force," she said. "With fewer deployments, now is a good time to stabilize our efforts and get families comfortable with the program." Key spouses work closely with unit commanders and first sergeants to meet the individual needs of each unit. Their duties can include organizing social events, sending care packages, and helping meet the physical and emotional needs of Reserve families. Volunteers may be married or single, and can even live outside of the state. "The Reserve is unique," Hanych said. "We have members who live in Idaho and other surrounding states, and it's important to keep them connected as well." In her civilian job, Hanych works for the 75th Air Base Wing at the readiness center, providing continuity to the 419th Key Spouse program during the week. Those interested in volunteering must complete initial training. Hanych said the readiness center is willing to work with volunteers' schedules and can conduct training online. For more information on becoming a key spouse, call the readiness center at (801) 777-9390 or click here. Stay connected -- Join the 419th on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube