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McChord provides families chance to escape

  • Published
  • By Airman Leah Young
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  Originally established in June of 2003, the Escape Zone serves as a forum in a comfortable environment for families to network and utilize organizations that are available to them.

In December of 2009, freezing temperatures caused a pipeline to burst at the McChord Field Escape Zone, which led to water damage and near demolition of the building.

After a few months of renovation, the Escape Zone re opened Sept. 17, allowing families to once again benefit from all that the program has to offer.

"Our focus is to provide support for our Airmen and keep families connected," said Master Sgt. Andrew Goodnight, 62nd Force Support Squadron NCOIC of the Airmen & Family Readiness Center. "This place is an excellent avenue for people to meet and learn what's available to them."

Sergeant Goodnight discovered the water damage and is, according to his co workers, a good part of the reason the Escape Zone remains open. He has devoted his time and efforts to ensuring the facility is accessible and ready for families to take advantage of.

"This is a really great stress valve for families," said Sergeant Goodnight. "They're welcome to come into this relaxed environment, get to know one another, do some networking and learn about the beneficial services we have to offer."

The Key Spouses group, Mothers of Preschoolers and Military Family Life Consultants are just a few of the organizations available to visitors. The Escape Zone was established through the Airmen & Family Readiness Center, which also offers programs to family members.

"When a spouse is away from home for the first time, they tend to feel lonely or scared," said Mrs. Betty McBee, Escape Zone coordinator and one of the establishers of the A&FRC. "The Escape Zone offers them a home away from home, a feeling of comfort and a chance to be around people who are going through the same thing."

Along with educating the community on organizations, the Escape Zone also hosts fun events. Frequent visits from firefighters and the 62nd Security Forces Squadron K-9 unit keep families entertained and connected.

Brooke Stebbins, military spouse and mother of two, says that without the Escape Zone, her family wouldn't of been able to get settled in a new place.

"We are so thankful for all the help they've given us," said Mrs. Stebbins. "I don't know what we would've done without this place."

The Escape Zone is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information and a calendar of events, visit the AFRC website at http://www.mcchordafb.us/a_f_readiness.html.