1. Senior Spouse Role in the Family Readiness Group (FRG)
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Senior Spouse Role in the Family Readiness Group (FRG) 1.
Trainer Talking Points
As the definition of Family has changed in the Army so too has who can be a part of the FRG.
The Family starts with the Soldier and radiates out to those the Soldier has identified as their Family – this is to ensure that those who provide support to Soldiers i.e., Family members, immediate and extended, have the support they need. Soldiers can identify anyone as a member of the FRG, however, not all FRG members are eligible for government benefits and entitlements. These are provided only to the Soldiers dependents.
While parents and extended Family are a part of the FRG, when identified by the Soldier, this does not give them installation access or privileges. Commanders need to identify those that want to actively participate in meetings and other FRG events that are happening and follow installation rules for bringing visitors on post.
DA Civilians and unit volunteers may also be a part of the FRG. Civilians often deploy and their Families may need the same support that is offered to a Soldier’s family through FRG channels.
Many of these individuals may be geographically disbursed and should be included in information sharing.
Sending a newsletter, letting them know about social media sites, vFRG, and including them on e- mail distribution lists are a few ways to help them feel connected.

2. FAMILY READINESS GROUP
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FAMILY READINESS GROUP
REAL: Readiness Essentials for Army Leaders 1.
Instructions to Trainer
Plan 1.5 hours for training
Schedule venue that allows enough space for activities.
Have all students sign in on DA Form 5900.
Welcome students to the training.
Introduce staff and, if appropriate and time permits, go around room and have students introduce themselves with name, unit, position and if they have an assigned Family Readiness Liaison/Military Point of Contact (FRL/MPOC) and/or Family Readiness Support Assistant (FRSA).
Discuss administrative issues to include use of phones, location of restrooms, respect for time, emergency evacuation and end of training evaluations.
Discuss use of Parking Lot for questions.
Thank students for their participation.
NOTE: This module can be taught as a stand alone or as a precursor to all other modules. It is a pre-requisite for all other FRG training modules. 2.
Needed Materials
Name Tent Cards (one per student)
Large Chart Note Paper
Computer with projector
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
FAMILY READINESS GROUP (FRG) FOUNDATIONS
ENGAGING • CONNECTING • EMPOWERING

3. What is Family Readiness
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What is Family Readiness
Family Readiness is the state of being prepared to effectively navigate the challenges of daily living experienced in the unique context of military service. Ready individuals and families are knowledgeable about the potential challenges; aware of the supportive resources available to them; and make use of the skills and supports in managing such challenges. 1.
Trainer Talking Points
This DODI reminds us that due to the nature of our Service Members (SM’s) work, we may find ourselves alone, in a new location or faced with an unexpected challenge – we are expected to work through obstacles independently.
Units continue to support military operations across the world and need to be prepared to deploy when notified, often with little notice. Their Families must also be prepared.
Although it may be a bit easier for a single Soldier to quickly deploy, Families of all Soldiers (including parents/designated person(s)) will need to know the following:
That the Soldier will be out of contact for a period of time.
To carry on every day in life as “normally” and independently as possible.
Who to call if assistance is needed.
That Family member/designated person will need to provide care for children and/or elderly dependents as well as, paying bills and provide day to day maintenance and upkeep.
4. The DODI states, “Family readiness services shall be provided though a system that maximizes the network of agencies, programs, services, and individuals in a collaborative manner to promote military family readiness, hereinafter referred to as the family readiness system (FRS).”
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
Department of Defense Instruction (DODI)

4. What is Army Family Readiness?
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What is Army Family Readiness?
“The Army places a high value on both military and personal preparedness. Commanders have an obligation to provide assistance to establish and maintain personal and Family affairs readiness.” 1.
Trainer Talking Points
The DA places the responsibility of unit readiness on the commander, and the commander will facilitate Soldier and Family readiness. AR
Since DA expects Soldiers and Family members to be ‘ready’ for many different situations including tragedy and crisis, the Army takes on the responsibility of unit readiness and develops processes and/or systems to maintain readiness and preparedness. 2.
Instructions to Trainer
Select one activity based on your audience. Both activities can be used if your audience is made up of all members of the Family Readiness Team. 3.
Activity 1
Facilitate discussion regarding what is military and personal preparedness. Record answers on chart note paper. Answers could include:
Financial, Emotional/mental readiness, Medical readiness, Care plans, Access to resources, Support networks
Make sure the responses promote Family readiness that leads to unit readiness.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
“Family Readiness is the mutual reinforcement provided to Soldiers, civilian employees, retirees (regardless of marital status) and their Family members - both immediate and extended.”
Army Regulation

5. Soldier’s Responsibilities
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Soldier’s Responsibilities
Soldiers bear primary responsibility for their Family and personal affairs readiness
At a minimum Soldiers:
Must arrange for the care of their Family members.
Will be informed of, support and participate in programs, services and activities designed to enhance the quality of life of themselves and their Families. 1.
Trainer Talking Points
Soldiers bear the responsibility to be personally and Family ready – including ensuring Family members are able to function in a daily life situation while he/she is away. 2.
Ask/Facilitate
Most of the ideas generated regarding readiness fall to the Soldier and the Family – so what does command provide?
Responses should include:
Opportunities to develop family care plans (FCPs),
Information to Soldiers and Family members on programs and events to enhance quality of life.
Educational briefings
Information regarding unit missions (deployment, communications, parenting issues, financial concerns, etc. 3.
1. While the command provides information it is up to the Soldier to ensure their Family is aware of the programs and services.
A Family Readiness Group or FRG is one avenue for the Family members to become aware of programs and services.
So let’s look at what an FRG is.
Army Regulation

6. ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
Record your own notes here:
What is a FRG?
“A FRG is a command-sponsored organization of Soldiers, civilian employees, Family members (immediate and extended) and volunteers belonging to a unit. FRG will provide mutual support and assistance, and a network of communications among the Family members, the chain of command, and community resources. FRG will assist unit commanders in meeting military and personal deployment preparedness and enhance Family readiness of the unit’s Soldiers and Families. They will also provide feedback to the command on the state of the unit ‘Family’.” 1.
Instructions to Trainer
Ensure the guided discussion covers the following points:
Information
Communication
Mutual support
2. Point out that AR 608-1, Appendix J provides further instruction on FRGs and how they are intended to operate.
NOTE: For Army Reserve students also refer to USAR For National Guard students also refer to CNGBI 2.
Ask/Facilitate
Ask students what the quote from the AR means to them? Answers could include:
The FRG is about keeping FRG members informed.
Commanders should be involved in Family readiness.
2. What do you think an FRG is and what the mission entails? Answers could include:
Getting Soldiers and Family members prepared.
Ensuring access to resources and assistance.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
Army Regulation 608-1, Appendix J

7. Record your own notes here:
FRG Mission
Act as an extension of the unit in providing official, accurate command information
Provide mutual support between the command and the FRG membership
Advocate efficient use of available community resources
Help Families solve problems at the lowest level 1.
Instructions to Trainer
Stress how providing information and referrals creates self-reliance and helps communities thrive. 2.
Ask/Facilitate
What does mutual support mean?
Responses should include:
The intent of mutual support is that communication creates an environment where command learns what FRG members need in order to ensure effective use of resources.
FRG members in turn support command through participation in meetings, connecting to the community, etc.
2. How does the FRG help members solve problems at the lowest level?
Answers will vary but should include:
They provide a baseline network of resources
Identify resources from those who have used them successfully
Provides a network of confidentiality where Families can turn for support
What are some of the resources we have available to Service Members and their Families?
ACS, Chaplain, CYS, Education Center, community partners, Family Assistance Centers, Military Family Life Consultants, Fort Family Outreach and Support Center, etc.
Army Regulation 608-1, Appendix J-2

8. NON-MISSION ESSENTIAL ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
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Support Activities
MISSION ESSENTIAL
Conduct FRG member meetings
Staff and committee meetings
Publication and distribution of FRG newsletters
Maintenance of updated Family rosters and Family readiness information
Establishment of FRG member telephone trees and distribution lists
Scheduling educational briefings for FRG
NON-MISSION ESSENTIAL
Social events
Fundraising 1.
Instructions to Trainer
This is a two-part slide. Click once for mission essential tasks. Complete Ask/Facilitate and trainer talking points 1-3.
Click again for non-mission essential tasks and share talking point 4-6. 2.
Ask/Facilitate
Ask what a successful FRG look like? Responses should include:
Welcomes new members and provide information on the unit FRG.
Establishes active communication, information and support network (timely, accurate, relevant).
Reaches out to new members in a variety of ways.
Is aware of resources and training available.
FRG leadership information is readily available.
Recruits people with skills, talents, and willingness to get involved into FRG leadership roles.
FRGs need to be all inclusive. 3.
Trainer Talking Points
The focus of the FRG needs to be on the mission essential items as these are what, by regulation the FRG is required to do in order to ensure Family readiness.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
Army Regulation 608-1, Appendix J-2

9. Soldier Readiness + Family Readiness = Unit Readiness
Record your own notes here:
FRG End State
Self-reliant and resilient Soldiers and Families
Single point of contact in the unit for FRG members
Network of communication between the Unit, Families, and Command
Mitigation of potential risks
Enhanced Soldier and Family Readiness 1.
Instructions to Trainer
This is a two-part slide. Click once for bullets. Discuss trainer talking points.
Click again to bring up the readiness equation. 2.
Trainer Talking Points
FRGs connect Soldiers and Families to available community resources through referrals to agencies and scheduling educational briefings or guest speakers from community agencies. These referrals and educational efforts also enable Soldiers and Families to solve their problems and help cope with the stresses.
Soldiers also benefit from a well-run FRG. They can be assured that their Families are supported, allowing them to focus on their duties.
Reduction of demand on unit manpower. As the other outcomes are met, the need for Unit manpower to support Families decreases proportionately. Volunteer manpower augments military manpower hours which translates into savings.
Soldier Readiness + Family Readiness = Unit Readiness

10. Record your own notes here:
FRG Members are… 1.
Trainer Talking Points
As the definition of Family has changed in the Army so too has who can be a part of the FRG.
The Family starts with the Soldier and radiates out to those the Soldier has identified as their Family – this is to ensure that those who provide support to Soldiers i.e., Family members, immediate and extended, have the support they need. Soldiers can identify anyone as a member of the FRG, however, not all FRG members are eligible for government benefits and entitlements. These are provided only to the Soldiers dependents.
While parents and extended Family are a part of the FRG, when identified by the Soldier, this does not give them installation access or privileges. Commanders need to identify those that want to actively participate in meetings and other FRG events that are happening and follow installation rules for bringing visitors on post.
DA Civilians and unit volunteers may also be a part of the FRG. Civilians often deploy and their Families may need the same support that is offered to a Soldier’s family through FRG channels.
Many of these individuals may be geographically disbursed and should be included in information sharing.
Sending a newsletter, letting them know about social media sites, vFRG, and including them on e- mail distribution lists are a few ways to help them feel connected.

11. BDE Steering Committee
Record your own notes here:
Family Readiness Team
Brigade Commander
BDE FRL
FR Advisor
Battalion Commander
BDE FRSA
BDE Steering Committee
Company Commander
Other Volunteer Positions
Key Contacts
Informal Fund Custodian
BN Steering Committee
BN FRL
BN FRSA
vFRG/Social Media SM
CARE Team Manager
FRL
FRG Leader
Legend
Supervisory
Coordination 1.
Instructions to Trainer
There are three different sample structures. (Active, Guard, Reserve). Use the component specific sample structure that best represents the population trained. If there is a possibility that students may move into another component trainer can cover all three slides, emphasizing that although there are differences in titles and some of the layout, much of the structure remains the same.
Emphasize that these structures are samples. There is no one size fits all. Commanders will set up their Family Readiness Team according to their specific structure and needs.
3. Inform students that they will learn more about these different functions and volunteerism later in the presentation. 2.
Trainer Talking Points
The company commander will structure their Family Readiness Team in the vision of the BN commander and oversee their FRG operations, ensuring all policies and procedures are followed.
So let’s start looking at the different positions and responsibilities within the FRG.
SAMPLE Structure

12. Family Readiness Team (ARNG) SAMPLE Structure
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Family Readiness Team
(ARNG)
Brigade Commander
FRL/MPOC
Battalion Commander
FRSA
FR Advisor
Company Commander
Secretary
Key Contacts Coordinator
Informal Fund Custodian
Publicity
Chairperson*
Newsletter
Telephone/
Contacts
Special Events
Coordinator*
Family Sponsorship
* Optional Positions
FRG Leader
SAMPLE Structure 1.
Instructions to Trainer
ARNG Sample Structure.
Use the component specific sample structure that best represents the population trained. If there is a possibility that students may move into another component trainer can cover all three slides, emphasizing that although there are differences in titles and some of the layout, much of the structure remains the same.
Emphasize that these structures are samples. There is no one size fits all. Commanders will set up their Family Readiness Team according to their specific structure and needs.
3. Inform students that they will learn more about these different functions and volunteerism later in the presentation. 2.
Trainer Talking Points
In the Army National Guard, due to its geographic dispersion, some states have adopted a regional concept where a FRSA may not be assigned to a specific BDE/BN to service all of its subsidiary units.

13. Family Readiness Team (USAR) SAMPLE Structure
Record your own notes here:
Family Readiness Team
(USAR)
Brigade Commander
FRL
Battalion Commander
FRSA
SVA
Company Commander
Secretary
FRG Committee Chair Coordinators
Informal Fund Custodian
Telephone/ Chairperson
Newsletter
Chairperson
Publicity Chairperson
Special Events
Coordinator
Family Sponsorship
Telephone/
Contacts
FRL/MPOC
FRG Leader
SAMPLE Structure 1.
Instructions to Trainer
USAR Sample Structure.
Use the component specific sample structure that best represents the population trained. If there is a possibility that students may move into another component trainer can cover all three slides, emphasizing that although there are differences in titles and some of the layout, much of the structure remains the same.
Emphasize that these structures are samples. There is no one size fits all. Commanders will set up their Family Readiness Team according to their specific structure and needs.
3. Inform students that they will learn more about these different functions and volunteerism later in the presentation.

14. BDE/BN Responsibilities
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BDE/BN Responsibilities
Provide overall guidance and goals for
Family Readiness Program
Provide FRG guidance to company command teams
Conduct staff and committee meetings as needed
Support and encourage FRG membership
Supervise BDE/BN FRL and FRSA
Establish and maintain a volunteer recognition and awards program
Budget for mission essential activities
Review company informal fund accounts 1.
Instructions to Trainer
Be prepared to discuss component and location specific guidance as appropriate.
Review slide ensuring that students understand that the vision of how Family readiness is provided should run from Brigade and Battalion down to the Companies. 2.
Trainer Talking Points
The Army places a high value on both military and personal preparedness; commanders have an obligation to provide assistance to establish and maintain personal and Family readiness.
As the Department of the Army expects Soldiers to be ready and Family members to be prepared for many different situations, the Army takes on the responsibility of unit readiness and develops process and systems to maintain readiness and preparedness.
Brigade and battalion commanders provide the overall guidance, direction and mentoring for Family readiness.
While FRGs are established and maintained at the company level according to the Army Regulation, commanders at higher levels provide guidance and oversight to the establishment and enforcement of policy and SOP.
Battalion level and high command teams are increasingly becoming more directly involved in company level FRGs.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
Army Regulation , Chapter 3 & 5-10

15. Family Readiness Support Assistant (FRSA) Responsibilities
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Family Readiness Support Assistant (FRSA) Responsibilities
Provide unit Family Readiness administrative and logistical support services
Coordinate training through local community resources
Attend prescribed/required training 1.
Instructions to Trainer
Use only if relevant to student population.
For further information regarding FRSA assignments, unit commanders may contact their chain of command, Army Community Service, State Family Programs Office or Family Programs Director.
Points to remember:
Not all units have an FRSA position.
National Guard FRSAs are contract staff.
Army Reserve FRSAs are DA Civilians.
DA Civilian FRSAs may be hired under various position descriptions and grade levels.
Roles and responsibilities may vary. 2.
Trainer Talking Points
FRSAs are paid employees who work for the unit commander in an administrative capacity.
FRSAs are NOT the volunteer manager and by regulation will NOT be involved in informal fundraising activities, casualty assistance procedures, suicide prevention activity, teaching Family readiness training, Family counseling, or other non-FRSA official administrative support duties.
In units that have an FRSA, collaboration with the FRL and FRG Volunteers is essential to deliver Family Readiness Programs at the unit level.
NOTE: Requirements vary by component, position description and/or status (DA Civilian or Contract Staff)
Army Regulation 608-1, Appendix J-5

16. Family Readiness Advisor Responsibilities
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Family Readiness Advisor Responsibilities
Acts as an advisor to command team on FRG matters
Provides mentorship and guidance to FRG Leaders and volunteers
May serve on BDE or BN steering committees
Serve as a two-way information conduit at all levels 1.
Instructions to Trainer
Family Readiness Advisors (FRA) may have different titles depending on component, location, and unit. FRA refers to a volunteer advisory positon.
FRAs are at the BDE or BN level and not all units will have FRAs. 2.
Trainer Talking Points
Although there is no regulatory guidance governing this position, it has been proven to benefit Family Readiness Groups and the entire Family Readiness program.
Family Readiness Advisors may be called different titles, i.e., Senior Advisor, Senior Volunteer Advisor, etc.
The Family Readiness Advisor should complete a DD Form 2793, be given a position description, and be appointed in writing by the commander.
Family Readiness Advisors are volunteers (often the Senior Commander and/or Command Sergeant Major’s Spouse, but not always) that help mentor and advise new FRG leaders.
Family Readiness Advisors volunteer at the Battalion and/or Brigade level.
Family Readiness Advisors are encouraged to attend additional training offered by the ACS Mobilization, Deployment & SSO Program, State Family Programs Office, or the Family Programs Office.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE

17. Command Team Responsibilities
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Command Team Responsibilities
Provide overall guidance and goals for FRG
Ensure that the FRG appeals to all service members, civilians, and Family members (FRG membership)
Establish and develop a unit level Family Readiness Plan
Maintain command and control of FRG activities
Appoint FRL and FRG volunteers in writing
Provide administrative and logistical support and guidance to FRL and FRG volunteers
Establish and maintain a volunteer recognition and awards program
Budget for mission essential activities
Authorize and review informal fund account statements
Promote maximum FRG membership participation 1.
Instructions to Trainer
This information can be found in AR , AR Appendix J, USAR
Refer students to Administration Section of the Smart Book to find further guidance including the DODI and applicable Army Regulations. 2.
Trainer Talking Points
Emphasize that the FRG is the commander’s responsibility regardless of volunteer participation – This is one aspect of their Family Readiness Program.
Unit leadership has the ultimate responsibility in ensuring their Family Readiness Program and FRG is operating effectively and in accordance with the commander’s intent and Family member needs. As such, it is highly recommended the commanders and First Sergeants work together to provide overall guidance and direction for the FRG.
Commands, Divisions, Brigade, and Battalions will provide the commander’s intent regarding Family Readiness – it is up to the unit commander to execute the program.
The commander’s plate is very full. Think back to the slide with the sample Family Readiness Team structure. Although the commander sits at the head of the Family Readiness Team structure, the rest of the team should be organized to assist the commander to meet their Family Readiness goals.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
AR , AR 608-1, USAR 608-1

18. Family Readiness Liaison (FRL) Responsibilities
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Family Readiness Liaison (FRL) Responsibilities
Provide operational (primary advisor to the FRG on all military matters), administrative (ensure FRG rosters are up to date) and logistical support (coordinate volunteer training) to the FRG Leadership
Monitor and maintain oversight of the Command Family Readiness Program
FRL DUTIES ARE ASSIGNED BY THE COMMANDER 1.
Instructions to Trainer
Ensure students understand more information about each individual position will be available in additional training.
Provide component specific information as appropriate. For example, the National Guard refers to this position as a Military Point of Contact (MPOC). 2.
Trainer Talking Points
The FRL may be the commander’s designated representative for day to day contact for FRG Members (information, resources, referrals).
Requirements vary but a good guide is that FRLs have the following:
Be a Sergeant or above
Have a 12 months retainability
Be selected and appointed in writing by the commander
Attend prescribed/required training
It is recommended that FRLs not be given any other additional duties and that they possess effective communication, interpersonal and leadership skills. This recommendation may be a requirement depending on MACOM or component.
Further information on FRL responsibilities is covered in follow-on training for commanders, FRL and FRG leaders.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
DODI , AR

19. FRG Leader Responsibilities
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FRG Leader Responsibilities
Serve as the champion of the FRG membership:
Support the command team’s Family readiness goals
Maintain open communication and relationship with unit leadership, FRL, FRSA and Family Readiness Advisor
Complete mission essential tasks as outlined
Work with command team to plan and execute FRG activities
Ensure FRG maintains communication with FRG membership and provide information, resources and referrals
Attend required Family Readiness training and meetings
Complete required volunteer registration and administrative tasks
Recruit and work with FRG volunteers 1.
Trainer Talking Points
The type and scope of the FRG leader’s responsibilities will vary depending upon a number of factors, i.e., budget, unit needs, command emphasis, unit mission, geographical location and deployment schedule, etc.
The FRG leader is a volunteer position and implements and executes the commander’s vision of the FRG but does not act independently of the commander’s guidance.
FRG leaders are selected and appointed, in writing, by the command, and are not necessarily the commander’s or First Sergeant’s spouse.
Regular communication between the FRG leader and the commander or FRL is a must. This will ensure the FRG is meeting the command expectations, allow for two way communication, and provide feedback to the commander.
FRG leaders will be privy to sensitive information and must maintain privacy and confidentiality at all times.
While the commander is responsible for selecting volunteers, the FRG leader will play a vital role in recruiting and retaining volunteers that will support the FRG.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
AR 608-1, USAR 608-1

20. FRG Key Contact Responsibilities
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FRG Key Contact Responsibilities
Accurately relays information to and from Command in a timely manner to assigned Families
Fields calls and assists Families with elevating concerns and providing referrals as necessary; reports all serious matters to the Chain of Command
Build trust allowing Family members to communicate openly
Maintains privacy and confidentiality at all times
Attend required training 1.
Ask/Facilitate
What key functions does the key contact volunteer assist with in the FRG? Responses may include:
primary point of contact for a designated number of families
provide trends to command
control rumors
Report serious issues to the Chain of Command
are one of the first contacts or introduction to the command and FRG
What are some of the qualities you would want in a Key Contact Volunteer? Responses could include:
desire to assist, some knowledge of installation resources
ability to foster relationships
willingness to follow guidelines 2.
Trainer Talking Points
Key contacts will contact FRG members as directed by the commander – commanders may request that Key Contacts interact with FRG members to welcome them to the unit, provide command information, notify and encourage members to attend unit and FRG sponsored activities.
The Key Contact position helps to maintain the contact roster, which is a essential mission of the FRG per AR 608-1, Appendix J.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE
AR 608-1, USAR 608-1

21. Fund Custodian Responsibilities
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Fund Custodian Responsibilities
Assist command with establishing (non interest bearing) bank account and obtain access to the account
Write and sign checks for FRG approved expenditures and reimburse pre-approved purchases
Maintain all documentation (authorized spending plan, ledgers, checks, receipts, annual reports, etc.)
Prepare informal fund report for review
Ensure the FRG informal fund SOP is written and approved by current commander
Complete required documents to volunteer within the unit 1.
Trainer Talking Points
The Funds Custodian is responsible for informal fund custody, accounting and documentation.
The Funds Custodian and alternate must be appointed in writing. Both these positions must be filled if there is an existing Informal Fund within the unit per AR 608-1, Appendix J-7.
“The Informal Funds Custodian are personally liable for any loss and misuse of funds” AR 608-1, Appendix J-7
The Funds Custodian must not be the unit commander, deployable Soldier, FRG leader. NOTE: No Soldier or full-time support staff in USAR may be appointed as Funds Custodian per USAR 608-1
Additional training is available for Informal Fund Custodians and goes into much greater detail on their responsibilities and managing an informal fund account.
Fundraising is NOT a mission essential function of the FRG
AR 608-1, USAR 608-1

22. Other Volunteer Positions Informal Fund Custodian
Record your own notes here:
Company Command Team
FRG Leader
FRL 1.
Trainer Talking Points
This slide depicts the entire Unit Family Readiness team with the option for other volunteer positions as listed in the sample component structures.
There are other team members that not located at the Unit Level, but may be located at the BDE and/or BN levels. These are the FRSA and Family Readiness Advisor.
Key Point: We have talked about the mission, purpose, regulatory guidance and the FR team; now let’s talk about what is NOT appropriate for a FRG.
Key Contact
Other Volunteer Positions
Informal Fund Custodian

23. Record your own notes here:
FRGs Are Not…
A strictly social group
For deployment only
Childcare provider
Long term problem solvers
Part of casualty notification process
Fundraisers for unit entities
Lending institution 1.
Instructions to Trainer
This is a two-part slide. Click once for bullets.
Click again for graphic and share talking points. 2.
Trainer Talking Points
1. While not strictly a social group, social activities help build trust and camaraderie provide stress relief and reduce family loneliness.
2. Transitions within the military can be less stressful when relationships are already established.
The FRG can provide referrals to approved childcare resources.
FRGs provide information and referral to approved resources to assist Families in crisis.
The Army has an established notification process through Casualty Assistance Office (CAO).
Fundraising is not a mission essential function of FRGs. Funds must be used for the FRG as a whole and are not be mixed with unit funds.
Lending monies to specific individuals contradicts Army regulations. 3.
Ask/Facilitate
Ask for feedback on each of the bullets, i.e., what is the difference between a coffee group and an FRG?
Ask if there are any things students would add.

24. Volunteer Characteristics
Record your own notes here:
Volunteer Characteristics
Place the right person with the right skills in the right position
Consider the Characteristics for:
Family Readiness Advisor
FRG Leader
Key Contact
Informal Funds Custodian and Alternate 1.
Trainer Talking Point
Selecting the right person with the right skills in the right position is key to a successful FRG program. 2.
Activity
1. Training Supplies: This is dependent on venue or resources. Options include: Felt Board (Velcro, index cards), Dry Erase/White Board/Easel Pad (markers/dry erase markers/sticky notes, tape, etc.)
2. Prior to training: Prepare FRG Position Titles cards (Family Readiness Advisor, FRG Leader, Key Contact, Funds Custodian – may use additional positions based on audience), Create Cast of Characters cards (i.e., Brad Pitt, Tom Hanks, Taylor Swift, Elmo, Ellen Degeneres, Paula Deen, Beyonce, Will Farrell, Lady Gaga, Oprah, Tiger Woods, Taraji P. Henson, Justin Beiber, Justin Timberlake, Vin Diesel, Wendy Williams, Katy Perry,etc.), Create a cast of characters strengths and weakness guide for instructor use in case students are having a difficult time identifying characteristics (guide is for instructor use only).
3. Prior to class: Gather materials, Have each position and cast of character pre-printed, Place materials in rear of classroom or training venue, readily accessible, but not visible or distracting to students. Have Strengths and Weaknesses guide available. Based upon the audience size, break up audience into manageable groups. Recommend 20 or less per group.
ADDITIONAL NOTES ON NEXT PAGE

25. DoDIs/Regulations/Policies
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Guidance
DoDIs/Regulations/Policies
Department of Defense Instruction
Army Regulation
Army Regulation 608-1, Appendix J
CNGBI
USAR Regulation 608-1
State and Local Policies
Resources
R.E.A.L. Smart Book
R.E.A.L. Training
Component Training 1.
Trainer Talking Points
The way ahead is to familiarize yourself with applicable regulations and guidelines.
There is a multitude of guidance that helps define and shape how the FRG should function. It is helpful to become familiar with these different regulations and guidelines.
Additional training and handbooks are available through the ACS Mobilization, Deployment & SSO office, or on-line through Army One Source, State Family Programs Office, Command Family Programs Director and ARFP.org.
Key point: Your garrison ACS Center and National Guard and Army Reserve Family Programs office will assist unit commanders in establishing successful FRGs by providing expertise, classes, training and support.

26. Record your own notes here:
Soldier Readiness +
Family Readiness =
Unit Readiness
QUESTIONS 1.
Instructions to Trainer
Ask if there are any additional questions.
Pass out Check on Knowledge for FRG Foundations (located in the facilitator handbook) and ask students to answer the 10 questions.
Have students return the Check on Knowledge prior to leaving.
Make sure everyone is on the sign in sheet.
Pass out end of class surveys (a standard format is located in the facilitator handbook) and ask them to turn the evaluation back in prior to leaving.
Thank everyone for their attendance.
Make sure that you provide students with your point of contact information.

27. QUESTIONS