FRG Structure

There is no "ideal" way to set up an FRG. The best structure is one which is created to fit the unit, its mission and the unique make-up of its family members and their needs. Generally, the FRG function focuses on deployments. Its organizational structure depends on local conditions such as the type of military organization, geographic proximity and unit size. The system should revolve around the natural leadership abilities of the volunteers. Spouses should NOT be pressed into service simply because of the soldier's position. Rank should NOT be a factor in the role unit FRG volunteers play.

According to the Army, the general goals and activities of FRG's include:

  • Provide an opportunity for family members to mutually support and assist one another.
  • Develop and operate systems to provide information and education programs, welcome and orient new families, promote involvement, and prevent isolation.
  • Interact with military family members, the unit commander and rear detachment commander or military POC at the unit and higher levels.
  • Help involve families in unit activities.
  • Refer family needs that cannot be met by the FRG to the appropriate unit, installation or community resource.
  • Provide information to families who remain in the local area while soldiers serve unaccompanied tours.
  • Assist the unit in developing and evaluating mobilization and deployment handbooks. Ensure that all family members have deployment handbooks and installation and unit telephone directories.


    JOB DESCRIPTIONS

    FRG LEADERS: The leader can be any family member in the unit whom the Commander has appointed and endorsed. FRG Leaders' responsibilities include:
  • Becoming knowledgeable of unit mission, existing FRG operating procedures, structure and community resources.
  • Recruiting , training, and managing volunteers and using community resources as needed.
  • Organizing unit level readiness groups.
  • Tracking and recording volunteer hours.
  • Obtaining names, addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of all family members, including extended family members of single soldiers.
  • Preparing telephone trees and keeping the lists current.
  • Calling the Key Contact Person to activate the telephone tree.
  • Attending and chairing FRG meetings.
  • Ensuring communication is maintained among members.
  • Coordinating with community resources to provide training for FRG members.
  • Maintaining communication with the Commander and/or unit Point of Contact (POC).
  • Identifying family members' concerns and relating those concerns to unit leadership.
  • Working in conjunction with unit leadership to minimize rumors and stress.

    KEY CONTACT PERSON: This is the designated telephone contact volunteer. The general point of contact between the FRG leader and the group membership. Responsibilities include:
  • Calling assigned FRG members.
  • Maintaining up-to-date names, addresses and telephone numbers for assigned FRG members.
  • Providing timely and accurate information to family members.
  • Ensuring accessibility for information and referral assistance.
  • Ensuring contact is maintained.
  • Providing information and referral assistance to family members needing assistance.
  • Working in conjunction with company leadership to minimize rumors and stress.
  • Identifying assigned FRG members' concerns and relating those concerns to the FRG Leader.
  • Attending FRG meetings.

    TREASURER: Serves as the fund custodian for the FRG. The Treasurer's duties may include:
  • Keeping accurate records of FRG funds.
  • Arranging for regular and change of custodian audits.
  • Attending FRG meetings.
  • Providing regular reports to the Commander.
  • Providing timely and accurate financial reports.

    FRG MEMBERS:
  • Update address and telephone numbers.
  • Fulfill any accepted volunteer responsibilities.
  • Stay informed.
  • Attend and participates in FRG activities.

    ADDITIONAL VOLUNTEER ROLES:
  • Newsletter Editor
  • Childcare Coordinator
  • Special Events
  • Refreshments
  • Health and Welfare
  • Publicity

    SENIOR SPOUSE ADVISOR (SSA): The SSA may be the spouse of the Division, Brigade, or Battalion Commander or the spouse of the Command Sergeant Major. Spouses do not have rank. Spouses' chains of communication generally follow the same chains of command established by the military. The SSA duties may include:
  • Providing a communication network between the command, the FRG and families.
  • Identifying common problems, concerns and issues, and making recommendations to the appropriate level of command.
  • Promoting and supporting the training of volunteers at all levels of command.
  • Serving in an "advisory" capacity.
  • Participating and offering assistance as needed upon request.