Play more, stress less

Deployment-affected families and single Airmen stationed at Cannon Air Force Base may be eligible to receive more than $500 in free or discounted services through the Air Force's Playpass Program.

U.S. Air Force Courtesy photo

Deployment-affected families and single Airmen stationed at Cannon Air Force Base may be eligible to receive more than $500 in free or discounted services through the Air Force's Playpass Program.

Installations are given Playpass discount cards for distribution to those affected by a deployment or temporary duty lasting 30 days or more. In addition to allowing family members to connect with individuals enduring similar hardships, the program also provides an opportunity for a war-weary force to reintegrate into their communities by participating in social, recreational and educational programs.

"There are passes for both married and single airmen," said Master Sgt. Richard Gomez, 27th Special Operations Force Support Squadron readiness NCO. "Married airmen and their families are entitled to $585 while single Airmen receive $560, which can be utilized at any FSS facility at any active duty Air Force base in the world."

Much like a coupon book, the pass card is preprinted with specific value blocks that are applicable to corresponding programs.

"Money is divided into three specific categories," Gomez said. "Learn to play, recreate and explore. Learn to play coupons can be used for swimming and golf lessons, martial arts classes, personal training sessions — anything that teaches a skill. Recreation coupons can be used to participate in activities such as arts and crafts or bowling, while explore coupons can be used to rent equipment from Outdoor Recreation or sign up for day trips."

Playpasses can be redeemed at predeployment and reintegration briefings. Spouses of deployed or TDY members can collect their passes at any time, and each coupon card is valid for 90 days after a service member returns to their home station.

In light of present fiscal constraints, the Playpass Program is not expected to continue into the year 2014. As a result, members of the 27 SOFSS encourage Air Commandos to take advantage of this commodity before the window of opportunity closes.

"Though this program was enacted more than two years ago, more than $10 million in Playpass money has yet to be claimed. As an Air Force, we have only utilized about $2 million worth of Playpass services."

Gomez believes that with a strong showing of support and a little good fortune, this underutilized program may be allowed to continue.

"With any luck, Air Force leadership will decide to continue this program for a fourth year," he said. "I cannot stress how important it is for service members to take advantage of programs that are enacted to foster morale and strengthen relationships. If we use them to their full extent, they will be much more likely to stand the test of time."

For more information about the Playpass Program, contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 784-4228.