HOHENFELS, Germany -- More than 40 organizations from around U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels and the surrounding communities gathered to showcase their services at the Soldier Info Expo, here, Oct. 6.
"The purpose of this expo is to provide an effective and enticing display of healthy, constructive and fun activities which promote responsible drinking, readiness and resiliency by offering a myriad of alternative activities available by elements of the U.S. Army, the Hohenfels Military Community and the surrounding communities," said Mike Haney, recently departed USAG Bavaria-Hohenfels manager.
From garrison organizations such as the Training Support Center and the SHARP team (Sexual Harrasment /Assualt Response and Prevention) to Family, Morale Welfare and Recreation units like the Library and Outdoor Recreation, booths presented an overview of their services as well as an invitation to get involved.
"The Soldier Info Expo is aimed at providing alternative activities for our Soldiers and community members, so ACS (Army Community Service) is here offering information about volunteer opportunities," said Lara Claggett, Mobilization and Deployment program manager. "Volunteering is not only a way to get out and get involved, but it allows you to give back to the community."
The Army Wellness Center from Rose Barracks performed quick body fat percentage tests on customers while offering information of healthy eating choices and exercise. The center performs body composition analysis, weight management and metabolic testing, as well as many other health services, all of which are free to Soldiers and spouses.
"We don't want to put people on a diet, we trying to get them to change their behaviors," said Janie Lewandowski, Bavaria Medical Department Activity health technician.
Cities including Lupburg, Parsberg, Regensburg and Neumarkt presented a mixture of tourist and educational opportunities in their respective communities, from hiking trails along the Danube to the many classes available at the Volkschochschule in Neumarkt.
For even more education opportunities, the Hohenfels Education Center was on hand representing four schools with programs ranging from Associates to Masters and beyond.
"This is the perfect opportunity for the military member to take advantage of the many programs available to help fund their further education," said Kala Jewett, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University assistant campus director. "We can start anywhere, at any level, and we're here and ready to help community members with their education."
Private organizations like the Hohenfels Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club, Kontakt Club and the Gamers Group sought new members to join in their various activities. The Hohenfels Community and Spouses Club promoted not only their monthly social gatherings and "sub-clubs" such as knitting, photography, and adventure-seekers, but also their welfare grants and scholarship programs.
"Through our fund-raisers, thrift store and bazaar's we raise money to donate wherever there is a need, like to the boy scouts, or helping with the Hispanic Heritage celebration," said Sara Nantz, HCSC first vice-president. "The club is a great way to have fun, get to know people, and give back to the community."
A new group, Soldiers in Arms, is seeking members to join together to educate, mentor and empower each other. The group currently meets monthly and discusses such topics as effective communication, overcoming adversity, and a variety of other issues.
With the wide range of organizations, clubs, social groups and activities presented, the Soldier Info Expo demonstrated that whether community members are interested in sports, travel, cultural experiences or anything else, there is a group on Hohenfels ready to share that passion.
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