Have you heard of the ACS Annex that's opened on Patch Barracks? ACS is excited to bring some of their programs and resources to the community at Patch. Jennifer Shay Berchtold sat down with us to tell us more about what you can expect from the new ACS Annex. Currently, the ACS Annex is operating by appointment only until further notice.
Q. What can you tell us about the new ACS annex on Patch Barracks?
A. We're trying to make it so what's offered over at Panzer is also occasionally offered here at Patch - trying to meet the community's needs so they don't have to drive all the way over to Panzer. They can actually come here to Patch inside the food court, where it's very convenient.
We get a lot of high traffic. And the people can then come into the office and get welcome packets, learn about what we offer in terms of relocation assistance, financial assistant, we have a translator as well over at panzer. A lot of the systems and programs are still located at Panzer, but we will be kind of a one-stop-shop where they can come in and learn about what we offer and then help provide them with future referrals.
I think there's a need so that people don't have to go all the way over to Panzer to get information and that's our job--helping family members and service members. So we really need to be here to also represent ACS and make it convenient for families.
We also have a FAP (family advocacy program) specialist here. We're here to get the word out about ACS and lead customers in the right direction if they come here and say "Hey, I need this assistance." We can also get them in the lending closet, they still have to go to Panzer to get the stuff, but we can help them call the front office, get them an appointment and get them all set up to go over there and pick it up. We're trying to be more convenient, so that everyone doesn't have to go only to Panzer to get information about ACS.
Q. So would you say that the ACS Annex is basically a Satellite office for ACS on Panzer?
A. Correct, Panzer is big, but Patch is just as big and there was no representation out here of ACS, so we’re trying to make sure we’re reaching and assisting those families that are located here and meeting their needs too, and helping them realize all the things ACS offers.
Q. Where is the ACS Annex located?
A. Inside the Patch food court. Bldg 2330. Right by the barber shop, towards the very end of the food court. Right across from the Arts and Crafts building.
Q. Will you have any other drop-in services?
A. Yes, customers can come and use our small computer lab if they need to. There's a bit of free printing available as well. We also have a classroom that's available. The New Parent Support Group is meeting here once a month on Patch, so we'll be offering their services here and other classes as well.
Q. I’m sure our community would like to know a little bit more about you as well. How long have you been working for ACS or MWR?
A. I’ve been working for MWR for about 25 years. I have a lot of experience in Child & Youth Services as a School Liaison Officer, as a trainer. This is my first time working for ACS, and I’m really excited about it! I love working for the community, partnering with the community, and just providing services for our families and our Service Members. Specifically, I'm the Mobilization Deployment Specialist, I also assist with Survivor Outreach Services, as well as the EVAC program that happens once a year, and just anywhere else I can be of assistance.
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https://www.facebook.com/USAGStuttgartACS
