Dorm council strengthens communication, builds bonds

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
Single Airmen living in the dorms are busy making sure life is fun, functional and furnished through the dormitory council.

The council, which was formed here in July 2010, provides Airmen living in the dorms a communication tool with base leadership as well as improving dormitory life for all residents.

"The dorm council is the forum by which residents of the dormitory can address their concerns about their living environment with a panel of their peers, establish standards for all residents, present solutions for problem areas, establish positive recreational activities and identify facility and furnishing improvements," said Airman 1st Class Charnelle Albino, Airmen Dormitory Council president.

The dorm manager agrees that's it's important to empower residents.

"Having a dormitory council empowers the residents not only to be responsible and accountable for the living conditions, but gives them a say and a sense of ownership of their home," said Jeff Stafford, 66th Air Base Group dorm manager. "It's a place for gathering information and advising leadership about the health of dormitory life."

With meetings held monthly, the dorm council is able to communicate collectively with residents who often work varying shifts.

"Dorm residents get together each month to help all Airmen in the dorms," said Stafford. "They ask what the residents want, what improvements they want to see and what they expect from their living quarters."

Since taking over this past summer, Albino agrees that it's important to instill a sense of home ownership to residents.

"In addition to instilling a spirit of camaraderie among residents, the dorm council enhances responsibility and encourages teamwork for the accomplishment of goals," said Albino. "It also instills a sense of home ownership for residents and resolves potential conflicts at the lowest levels possible."

For Airmen who may not have many opportunities to talk to leadership, the council offers that opportunity, as well.

"Being president has been a positive influence on my career both personally and professionally," said Albino. "It has given me several opportunities to socialize and network, along with building strong bonds with fellow Airmen in the dorms."

Elected annually, dorm council members begin a new term Jan. 1.

"As a result of several members of the dorm council scheduled to move soon, the election process is beginning earlier this year," Albino said. "Airmen can nominate themselves or other Airmen living in the dorms by Nov. 16. Voting will be done by email with a new dorm council announced shortly after."

For more information on the dorm council, contact the dorm manager at Jeff.Stafford@hanscom.af.mil.