HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- To enhance the well-being and support of community members, installation helping agencies here continue partnering to roll out the Connect to Care program.
Connect to Care refers to an approach in which a person seeking assistance will never encounter a “wrong door” in getting care and support. Even if they reach the wrong organization, whoever receives the customer first will be trained to ensure the appropriate connection is made.
“The Hanscom Air Force Base Integrated Prevention and Resilience office has collaborated with base leaders to implement the Connect to Care initiative over the past year,” said Dr. Ebon Alley, Hanscom AFB Integrated Prevention and Resilience director.
66th Air Base Group leaders incorporated Connect to Care in their “Hanscom Roadmap 2024” under Line of Effort 2, “Build Better Airmen.”
“In times of need, we get one chance to get it right without delay or denial,” said Col. Taona Enriquez, 66 ABG and installation commander. “The Connect to Care program stands as a beacon of support, where there is no wrong door.”
The Connect to Care program aligns with the recommendations of an Independent Review Commission, established by the Secretary of Defense in February 2021. The IRC's fourth Line of Effort emphasizes victim care and support and specifically recommends the implementation of a "No Wrong Door" approach for addressing interpersonal violence.
The Air Force Materiel Command has also adapted their helping agency response policy to align with this construct.
“One key addition is the requirement for base helping agencies to work with each other to provide efficient support,” said Kristin Wright, Hanscom AFB’s violence prevention integrator. “Agencies working together is vital in ensuring individuals receive the necessary assistance promptly.”
The program also emphasizes co-locating helping agencies when possible, making it easier for individuals to reach out for help.
The following Hanscom AFB agencies are co-located in the Community Support Center in building 1240: Sexual Assault Prevention and Response, Military and Family Readiness Center, Employee Assistance Program, Equal Opportunity, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility.
“This co-location simplifies the support-seeking process and reduces the barriers to access services and resources,” said Wright. “It's about breaking down silos between agencies, promoting open communication, and working together to achieve a common goal of taking care of community members.”
Interpersonal violence, which includes issues like sexual harassment, hazing, bullying, domestic abuse, and sexual assault, is often handled by multiple agencies.
According to Wright, another addition is a government vehicle located outside building 1240 to transport individuals to organizations such as Family Advocacy Program, Mental Health, a civilian hospital, or other military or civilian agency, as necessary.
The Connect to Care program formalizes procedures for connecting individuals with the right services and programs. It ensures a person-centered approach that improves access and support.
“To ensure the success of this program, key personnel across helping agencies receive training that covers the program's background, intent, and the necessary policies and procedures,” said Alley. “This training will be an ongoing effort to keep all individuals up to date with requirements.”
Feedback from customers is also crucial for the program's success. Agencies providing connections through Connect to Care must make a feedback form available to personnel, ensuring continuous improvement.
“The program is a testament to the Air Force's commitment to supporting its community,” said Enriquez. “By breaking down barriers, the Connect to Care program ensures individuals can seek help with confidence, knowing they will receive the care and support they need.”
For further information about Connect to Care, contact Wright at kristin.wright.1@us.af.mil.