Get out and play

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Rachelle Elsea
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Deployments can be hard on everyone, but thanks to multiple 325th Force Support Squadron programs, the benefits can ease a lot of the hardships during and after the deployment. One particular perk, the PLAYpass, offers an array of discounts on activities for single Airmen and their dependents.

"The PLAYpass program provides deployed affected single Airmen and Air Force families respite from the challenges of deployment," said Corey Coleman, 325th FSS marketing director. "In continuing efforts to build a resilient force, single Airmen returning from deployment and families of deployed members, can receive special discounts and rewards to help make their deployment easier."

This program, which was launched in January 2011, gives a break from the rigors of deployment through learning, recreation and leisure programs, with several hundreds of dollars in rate reductions from on-base facilities.

"Airmen and Family Readiness is distributing PLAYpass cards, which are pre-printed with specific dollar value coupon blocks that can be applied to the specified programs offered at each participating location," Coleman said. "Each card is valued in excess of $500. Families with children also receive a Youth card which gives additional benefits to kids. PLAYpasses can be used to rent a boat, take sailing classes, take photography classes, go bowling, sign your kids up for sports, and much more."

The Airman and Family Readiness Center is located in building 747.

During the 2012 summer months, members can enjoy their several Tyndall PLAYpass benefits at the Youth Center, Child Development Center, Raptor Lanes Bowling Center, Arts and Crafts Center, Auto Hobby Shop, Bonita Bay Outdoor Recreation, and the Pelican Point Golf Course.

"Airmen and their families and single Airmen should take advantage of the PLAYpass because they earned it and the program is full of great benefits to them," Coleman said. "Get out this summer and rent a boat or sign your kids up for archery camp. There are so many great ways to use the card and enjoy all we have to offer here at Tyndall."

Individuals who have deployed or received a 365-day permanent change of station in support of an active operation such as OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM are eligible. They must have orders returning on or after Dec. 1, 2010.

The individuals must also be active duty, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, Defense Department civilian or Army, Navy, or Marine deployed from a tenant organization on an active Air Force base or in Air Force Wounded Warrior status or DoD card holder of a fallen warrior.

To check for PLAYpass qualification visit myairforcelife.com or www.325fss.com/PLAYpass. Additionally, the 325th Force Support Squadron offers monthly information fairs at Horizons Community Center. Dates and times are subject to change, so for current scheduling call (850) 283-2495.

"I feel like this program is a great way to help families of deployed members while they are gone," said Coleman. "Being home with the kids all summer by yourself is a lot of work, but the PLAYpass can allow you opportunities to explore the base without spending money. Join a bowling league, take a photography class, get a family pool pass, and explore your base this summer with your PLAYpass."