Moving Out of the Area?
Before moving consult your nearest Family Center, the best source of relocation information
and planning assistance. Other useful resources include local chambers of commerce, libraries,
bookstores, and the Internet. Use them to find out what you need in order to make informed
moving decisions.
Family Centers
Family Centers can refer you to offices, programs, and services that may be of assistance as
you prepare to leave the military. Examples include the Relocation Assistance Program (RAP),
the Personal Financial Management Program, Information and Referral, Spouse Employment Assistance
Program, and the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).
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Hot Tip:
The term “Family Centers” is used here to refer to the following Service-specific
entities:
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Army: Army Community Service Center
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Air Force: Airman & Family Readiness Center
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Navy: Fleet and Family Support Center
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Marine Corps: Marine and Family Services
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Chambers of Commerce
Many communities across America have chambers of commerce. Each chamber of commerce
promotes its community and is a good source of information about the surrounding area: the
local job market, housing costs, local realtors, cost of living, local taxes, climate, schools and
availability of recreation or child care. Ask for the chamber’s booklet – much like the
relocation packet you received about a new installation when you changed stations.
Libraries and Bookstores
The reference section of your nearest
installation library,
public library or bookstore may offer atlases, maps, and geographical information that
provide useful information. Tour books and guides in the travel section may provide insights
into the community you may someday call home. Military libraries and public libraries also
have many other free resources. Libraries also offer customer use computers which can help you
keep up to date on the latest news in your new community, apply for a job, check your e-mail, or
just chat with friends.
Some helpful web sites on following topics:
Relocation:
Education:
Jobs:
Make full use of the library databases that are behind AKO. Go to the "My Library" site
under self-service on the first page of AKO. It is easy navigation from there to
the library reference databases that will help folks find business information on companies
(Newsbank), college information (Peterson's), resume preparation (Peterson's), and help in
making financial decisions (Morningstar).
