The Commander's Key Support Program (CKSP) is an official U.S. Air & Space Force Commander’s program that facilitates communication between Commander appointed volunteers and the unit’s family members. The CKSP plays a vital role in connecting spouses and families to leadership and valuable resources. The CKSP is a readiness program developed to provide support especially for families experiencing deployments.
CommandersCommanders – Commanders will establish the CKSP for their unit, recruit, and appoint volunteers. The Commander maintains communication with all appointed Key Support Liaisons & Key Support Mentors on a frequent basis to be informed of emerging trends within their unit. (ex. financial stressors, access to childcare, etc.) First Sergeant SNCO/DesigneeFirst Sergeant or other SNCO/designee – A designee within the unit serves as an additional point of contact for KSL/KSM volunteers providing administrative and logistical support. The designee is responsible for maintaining the unit’s CKSP file and ensures volunteers have access to unit information such as rosters and social media outlets. Military & Family Readiness Center (M&FRC)Military & Family Readiness Center (M&FRC) – M&FRC is responsible for providing the mandatory training for the program to Command teams and all appointed Key Support Liaison & Key Support Mentor volunteers. Mandatory training for volunteers consists of Initial, Immersion, and Mentor training. Additionally, Sexual Assault Prevention & Response (SAPR) and Suicide Awareness trainings are required annually. M&FRC maintains the installation roster of all CKSP volunteers and provides additional training opportunities and resources to all volunteers. M&FRC also plays a role in connecting CKSP volunteers to local community resources. | Key Support LiaisonKey Support Liaison (KSL) – An appointed volunteer who builds rapport with unit family members, welcomes new families/individuals to the unit, provides access to information and resources, and provides readiness support for families of deployed members. Key Support Liaisons play a vital role in connecting families to leadership. Key Support MentorKey Support Mentor (KSM) – An appointed volunteer who serves as an advocate for the unit Key Support Liaisons. They often have additional experience or insight to assist Key Support Liaisons in navigating complex situations that may arise. Key Support Mentors support Key Support Liaisons but are not supervisory. It is not mandatory that a unit have an appointed Key Support Mentor. CKSP Guides & ResourcesAre you interested in becoming a Key Support Liaison?Contact your unit command team and the Military & Family Readiness Center at (618) 256 - 8668 for more information. |