CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The acronym is OSA but what exactly does it stand for and what do they do?
The Officers' Spouses' Association is a base welfare organization that supports the needs of spouses and family members in addition to base-wide organizations like the first sergeants.
However, the primary focus for the OSA is on scholarships for Team Charleston spouses and family members.
Becoming a member of the OSA is simple said Kristen Moore, OSA president.
"Come to a meeting. We meet the first Wednesday of every month at the Charleston AFB golf course café at 10 a.m.," she says. "Membership fees are based on how active a member you would like to be. The dues are used to help with the initial expenses for events. As a non-profit organization, we only carry over a minimal amount each year ... everything else goes to scholarships and base support."
The OSA is hosting a Mardi Gras Party and silent auction Feb. 24 at the Charleston Club where the proceeds will benefit the OSA Welfare Fund, which awards scholarships to military family members and supports other military charities.
Last year the OSA, gave out more than $6,000 between scholarships and base support. This year, they are hoping to give out $10,000.
"We give academic scholarships to high school seniors and spouses who live in the tri-county area," said Ms. Moore. "We give out three to five scholarships per year depending on the success of the silent auction and profitability of the consignment shop."
Scholarship applications are available in the Charleston AFB Consignment Shop, which is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Applications are also available in the guidance offices at most area high schools or e-mail Valerie Todd at Jeffery.todd25@comcast.net for a copy.
For spouses interested in becoming a part of the OSA, e-mail Ms. Moore at kamspinto@yahoo.com for more information.