AWAG hosts first Aviano volunteer conference

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Katherine Tereyama
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Americans Working Around the Globe held their Northern Italy Area Conference to train, strengthen and connect volunteers Dec. 6 at Aviano Air Base, Italy.

More than 115 people attended the conference by the non-profit private organization. Representing military members and civilians working overseas, AWAG offers leadership development training, facilitates volunteerism and fosters relationships between Americans and their host-country nationals. Attendees heard from 13 expert speakers who covered topics geared toward improving volunteer leadership, marketing, continuity, finances and more.

"This conference is a wonderful tool for people looking to volunteer in their community or hoping to improve their volunteer organizations," said Diana Vosseller, event organizer. "It inspires people to volunteer, teaches you how to motivate other volunteers and lead your organization."

Chief Master Sgt. Jeffrey Craver, 31st Fighter Wing command chief, was one of the event's key speakers, sharing his more than 26 years of military experience and encouraging attendees to "take the leap" and volunteer.

"You will be amazed at the ripples of opportunity the splash creates," he said. "Throughout my career I have had opportunities to volunteer and I have had times to say 'No, I won't.' The times someone dragged me along anyways were some of the most rewarding experiences of my life."

The conference was a forum for learning, with attendees given the opportunity to ask questions, take notes and take part in small working group discussions. Tech. Sgt. Joshua Roberts, 31st Munitions Squadron storage plans NCO in charge, said he learned much that he can take back to his work center and volunteer organization.

"I enjoy volunteering and it's something I push my Airmen to do as well," said Roberts. "This offers a fresh perspective and reminds me why I do what I do. It's not about the [enlisted performance report] bullets or the awards; it's about helping people and doing something that will benefit the community."