FAMILY OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM Learning   Objectives:   When   you   finish   this chapter, you will be able to— · Recall the provisions of the Family Ombudsman Program. · Identify   sources   of   information   available   to Navy families. The command ombudsman is a volunteer who is a liaison between the command and families. This person undergoes a regular application and interview process by   the   command   team   and   is   appointed   by   the commanding   officer.   Once   the   CO   appoints   an ombudsman, he/she attends an intense 21-hour training course that provides the basic tools for performing the duties of the position. In addition, ombudsmen undergo continuous  training  offered  through  local  assemblies and family service centers. Since  1973,  the  focus  of  the  program  has  shifted away  from  the  grievance-processing  role.  Today,  the enlarged scope of the ombudsman job is assisting COs in their responsibilities for the morale and welfare of the families of the command. In general, any functions that promote these goals may be included in the ombudsman program.   It   is   always   the   CO   who   determines   the content and priorities of that program. The basic roles and functions of an ombudsman are as follows: · S e r v e    a s    t h e    p r i m a r y    l i n k / l i a i s o n    a n d c o m m u n i c a t o r    o f    i n f o r m a t i o n    b e t w e e n command families and the command. · Communicate regularly with command families in   ways   approved   and   supported   by   the command;  for  example,  command  newsletter, command-sponsored telephone “Careline,” and a   phone   tree   for   emergency   information   as directed by the CO. · Provide information and outreach to command family   members.   Interact   and   cooperate   with organizations  and  military  departments,  family service   centers,   chaplain’s   office,   medical treatment  facilities,  Navy-Marine  Corps  Relief Society,  American  Red  Cross,  Navy  Wifeline Association,   legal   assistance   offices,   and   so forth. · Refer   individuals   in   need   of   professional assistance   to   appropriate   resources;   possibly provide support to individuals and refer them for counseling. · Act   as   an   advocate   for   command   family members;  help  access  the  appropriate  level  of chain of command for intervention and for the forwarding   of   appropriate   requests/grievances while exercising confidentiality. · Participate   in   indoctrination   and   orientation programs. · Assist in welcome programs and act as a family coordinator   as   part   of   the   command   Sponsor Program. · Represent the command on committees, boards, and  working  groups  in  the  military  or  civilian communities   concerned   with   services   and support to command families. · Participate in activities that would promote the morale,   health,   and   welfare   or   command families. The ombudsman is trained to help with information and  referral;  however,  they  are  not  a  taxi  service  or babysitter.   The   Privacy   Act   and   strict   rules   of confidentiality bind the command ombudsman; they are not a rumor mill. REENLISTMENT QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM Learning Objective: When you finish this chapter, you will be able to— · Recall the incentives for reenlistment, education, and special duty. The   Reenlistment   Quality   Control   Program   sets standards you should meet to be eligible to reenlist. The purpose of the Reenlistment Quality Control Program is as follows: 1-23 Student Notes: