FAMILY OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM Learning  Objectives:  When  you  finish  this chapter, you will be able to— Recall the provisions of the Family Ombudsman Program. Identify  sources  of  information  available  to Navy families. The command ombudsman is a volunteer who is a liaison between the command and families. This person undergoes a regular application and interview process by  the  command  team  and  is  appointed  by  the commanding  officer.  Once  the  CO  appoints  an ombudsman, he/she attends an intense 21-hour training course that provides the basic tools for performing the duties of the position. In addition, ombudsmen undergo continuous training offered through local assemblies and family service centers. Since 1973, the focus of the program has shifted away from the grievance-processing role. Today, the enlarged scope of the ombudsman job is assisting COs in their responsibilities for the morale and welfare of the families of the command. In general, any functions that promote these goals may be included in the ombudsman program.  It  is   always   the  CO  who  determines  the content and priorities of that program. The basic roles and functions of an ombudsman are as follows: S e r v e   a s   t h e   p r i m a r y   l i n k / l i a i s o n   a n d c o m m u n i c a t o r   o f   i n f o r m a t i o n   b e t w e e n command families and the command. Communicate regularly with command families in  ways  approved  and  supported  by  the command; for example, command newsletter, command-sponsored telephone “Careline,” and a  phone  tree  for  emergency  information  as directed by the CO. Provide information and outreach to command family  members.  Interact  and  cooperate  with organizations and military departments, family service  centers,  chaplain’s  office,  medical treatment facilities, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, American Red Cross, Navy Wifeline Association,  legal  assistance  offices,  and  so forth. Refer  individuals  in  need  of  professional assistance  to  appropriate  resources;  possibly provide support to individuals and refer them for counseling. Act  as  an  advocate  for  command  family members; help access the appropriate level of chain of command for intervention and for the forwarding  of  appropriate  requests/grievances while exercising confidentiality. Participate  in  indoctrination  and  orientation programs. Assist in welcome programs and act as a family coordinator  as  part  of  the  command  Sponsor Program. Represent the command on committees, boards, and working groups in the military or civilian communities  concerned  with  services  and support to command families. Participate in activities that would promote the morale,  health,  and  welfare  or  command families. The ombudsman is trained to help with information and referral; however, they are not a taxi service or babysitter.  The  Privacy  Act  and  strict  rules  of confidentiality bind the command ombudsman; they are not a rumor mill. REENLISTMENT QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM Learning Objective: When you finish this chapter, you will be able to— Recall the incentives for reenlistment, education, and special duty. The  Reenlistment  Quality  Control  Program  sets standards you should meet to be eligible to reenlist. The purpose of the Reenlistment Quality Control Program is as follows: 1-23 Student Notes: