JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
If you're a single Airman or Sailor searching for fun and interesting activities, then look no further than the Single Airman Initiative and Liberty programs on Joint Base Charleston, S.C.
Both programs offer free to low cost opportunities to experience a variety of recreational, educational, historical and cultural programs.
The SAI program, located at JB Charleston - Air Base, is targeted for Airmen and Sailors ages 18-25, however, no age group is excluded. The Liberty program, located on the Weapons Station, is open to single Airmen, Sailors, and geo-bachelors, E1 - E6.
Eryn Pope, Joint Base Charleston SAI program manager, coordinates all SAI activities and classes. While many Air Force bases have an SAI program, Joint Base Charleston is the only base with a full-time coordinator.
"Having a dedicated manager means more involvement and programs," said Pope.
A few examples of the activities provided are skydiving, daily yoga classes, snowboarding, water rafting, video game tournaments and much more.
"It's a great way for new people to meet and make connections," said Pope. "This program was designed with getting Airmen out into the community."
The program manager's office is located in the dorms, which enables face to face briefings with the Airmen. There is always constant feedback on what events or programs are needed to fulfill and maintain a well-balanced military community.
"This is their (the Airmen's) program. It's what they make it," said Pope. "I'm just here to facilitate their needs."
While both Airmen and Sailors can take part in the SAI program, the Weapons Station also has a program. The Liberty program offers many similar activities for the same age group, the only difference being the SAI program is open to all while the Liberty program is restricted to single Airmen, Sailors and geo-bachelors, E1 - E6.
The Liberty program provides the Liberty Lounge, a free recreational facility located at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command within the Bowman Center on the Weapons Station. The lounge features a relaxed atmosphere with gaming systems, pool and ping-pong tables and even a soundproof recording studio with musical equipment.
"We have a ton of events going on for our Sailors and Airmen," said Edie Foley, Liberty program director. "The activities help them pull away from the stress and relax."
For service members interested in receiving more information about the SAI program visit www.facebook.com/SAIJBC, www.jbcharleston.com, or contact Eryn Pope at 250-2351. For information on the Weapon Station's Liberty Program, visit www.facebook.com/libertynws, www.jbcharleston.com, or contact them at 296-3942. Also look for the monthly issue of the Breeze which has a listing of dates for the events of both programs.