JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
One of the ways the Air Force encourages Airmen and families to maintain social fitness is through participation in events like "Community Connection" and local town halls.
These gatherings are designed to build trusted relationships, expand support networks and foster a sense of belonging, which are key elements of the Social Fitness pillar in the Comprehensive Airman Fitness framework.
The 502d Air Base Wing kicked off its 2025 Community Connection series at JBSA-Lackland on July 28. Events continued at JBSA-Randolph on July 29 at the Randolph Field Independent School District cafeteria, and wrapped up July 30 at the JBSA-Fort Sam Houston Elementary School. Held twice a year at each JBSA location, the events provide Airmen, families and civilians an opportunity to connect directly with leadership and community support agencies.
The events tie directly into the social fitness pillar of the Comprehensive Airman Fitness framework by helping Airmen and families build trusted relationships, strengthen their support networks, and feel a greater sense of connection to the community.
“Social fitness is so valuable because being able to connect families and build relationships is key to making Airmen stronger, and that, in turn, makes our whole community stronger,” said Andrea Black, 502d Force Support Group school liaison program manager. “Community Connection events are one way we help strengthen those networks across JBSA.”
Black and her team were on hand to share information and resources for families.
“Our role is to bridge communication between families, schools and the community,” Black said. “We help parents and students navigate school transitions, especially during PCS moves. I encourage families to take full advantage of these events, get to know their school liaison, and stay connected. If we can’t help directly, we’ll make sure to connect you with someone who can.”
Attendee Jessica Mayeaux said she appreciated learning more about upcoming events and support services available to families.
“It was great to hear about all the events they’re planning,” Mayeaux said. “Seeing and hearing all the information really puts things into perspective, helps us stay connected, and keeps the kids engaged.”
Col. Erik Dutkiewicz, 502d Force Support Group commander, highlighted the value of face-to-face communication.
“Participating in Community Connection events across Joint Base San Antonio is a great opportunity to engage with our community members,” Dutkiewicz said. “Despite the many forms of communication available today, face-to-face and direct online interaction remain invaluable tools for sharing information and receiving feedback. When we take part in events like these, we invest in our community ties and shared future by gaining new perspectives, better understanding the challenges our members face, and building meaningful relationships.”
Tech. Sgt. Airene Thomas-Williams, noncommissioned officer in charge at the Air Force Personnel Center, said the event helped her family feel welcomed after relocating.
“I wanted to get my husband and kids connected with the resources available on base,” Thomas-Williams said. “We recently moved here from overseas, so it was helpful to put faces to names. I learned a lot about the programs and events coming up. It feels good to be embraced by the military community after our time at the embassy.”
In addition to in-person participation, the Community Connection events are livestreamed, allowing those unable to attend physically to stay informed and involved. Whether attending on base or online, all JBSA personnel and families can participate, stay informed, and be part of the conversation.
For updates on upcoming Community Connection events, follow JBSA social media channels and visit https://www.jbsa.mil/Information/Community-Connection/. Questions or comments can be submitted any time through the Ask Away JBSA program at: https://www.jbsa.mil/Information/Ask-Away-JBSA/.