The Commander’s Ready and Resilient Council (CR2C) launched a two-part initiative earlier this year that worked to identify the Vicenza Military Community (VMC) & Darby Military Community (DMC) Climate and Culture. This initiative, running from May through June 2024, utilized a survey and working groups to identify and understand the challenges, trends, and positive aspects of being stationed in the DMC.
52 participants, including Service Members, Civilians, and Family Members, completed the Community Survey for the DMC. This survey was divided into 4 categories: Empowerment & Trust, Community Connection, Social & Personal Well-Being, and Dignity & Respect.
The top benefits of living in the DMC were listed as:
· Travel Opportunities
· Positive Cultural Interactions
· Culinary Experiences
The top 3 Community Events that increased their connection to the Community were:
· Trunk or Treat
· Christmas Tree Lighting
· Eggapalooza
The most utilized services within the community were:
· Fitness Center
· ACS
· Library
When asked about the barriers and issues presented within the DMC, respondents indicated concerns related to limited access to services, communication issues, a lack of community-led events, and feelings of isolation amongst high school aged dependents.
After the survey closed, CR2C conducted Focus Groups to receive more insight into the survey responses so that we can have a better understanding of how to develop positive change. The following are recommendations for improvement that were discussed during the Focus Groups.
• Due to limited access to services in Darby it was suggested to create awareness on the opening/closing times, services, and if walk-ins were given.
• For communication issues it was suggested to create a long- & short-term communication process, for example monthly newsletters and agency closure notices.
• To improve participation from members in the community, members suggested to have multiple events on the same day to have families enjoy the DMC with entertainment and promote cohesion.
• It was proposed to have more events tailored to High School students after 1630 when they come back from boarding.
The CR2C was able to use the data from the survey and Focus Groups to help guide the working efforts for 2025 and will provide the Senior Responsible Officer, Maj. Gen. Andrew Gainey with the results of the survey and focus groups as well as proposed initiatives for the year to increase the quality of life within the DMC.
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