How to give back (One for the Americans)

davecolorado72 · 29th February 08, 02:04 AM

Im not certain but I think you may be too old for explorer type programs. At least here those are primarily for teenage kids.

**Warlock** · 29th February 08, 05:18 AM

Good on you, Arlen. I believe Idaho has a State Guard program. You'll get a limited Military training and you would never be deployed out of state. Well, only if a neighboring Govenor request, but you only go on a voluntary basis.
Congrats!

**sharpdressedscot** · 29th February 08, 06:46 AM

If you go into the guard, are you gonna be full time or a traditional?

**Finn** · 29th February 08, 06:59 AM

Arlen,
Good for you wanting to give back!
Everyone has wonderful suggestions. Find your niche and run with it.
Best of luck!

**Arlen** · 29th February 08, 07:30 AM

Thanks for all the suggestions, guys.
Right now I am putting out feelers and trying to find out what I might be able to do as a career vs what would be just volunteering on the side.

I've contacted a few different places like C.A.P and Idaho Air National Guard. Just trying to find a way of doing something without having to leave Diane all over again.
It's all a bit complicated so I'm trying to just get all the info I can.

Here's hoping I can sort it out.

**Sheep In Wolf's Clothing** · 29th February 08, 07:43 AM

I know in Canada there is a network of Volunteer Bureaus. They are centralize office where non-profits and other agencies go to "advertise" their volunteer needs. There might be something like that in your new state.

Congrats Arlen for wanting to volunteer! From a person who works with volunteers and who volunteers, thank you!!
Sara

**davedove** · 29th February 08, 07:43 AM

Originally Posted by Arlen

I've contacted a few different places like C.A.P and Idaho Air National Guard. Just trying to find a way of doing something without having to leave Diane all over again.
It's all a bit complicated so I'm trying to just get all the info I can.

Understand that if you go the Guard route, you could very well be deployed, especially with the current hostilities. Much of the US's warfighting capability now resides in Reserve and Guard units. I'm not trying to discourage you joining there, just giving you something to consider.

CAP is completely voluntary, and doesn't pay anything, so it would be something to do on the side.

There are lots of great ideas here, but you'll have to make your own decision. We all have our favorites, but only you can determine where you'll "fit".

**sharpdressedscot** · 29th February 08, 07:46 AM

Mind that you're only deployed if you are in active duty and work full time there.

**davedove** · 29th February 08, 08:24 AM

Originally Posted by sharpdressedscot

Mind that you're only deployed if you are in active duty and work full time there.

Not at all true anymore. Many Guard units have been activated and deployed in the current conflict.

The old theory (Cold War) was that the Active duty would go first, then Reserve and Guard units would be ramped up if the conflict lasted long enough.

The new practice is that mainly quick response units are active duty (82nd Ariborne, 10th Mountain, etc.). Other units are in Reserve and Guard until there is a major conflict, at which time they may be among the first to deploy. Some support units are 100% Reserve and Guard, as they're not needed unless there is a major conflict.

**Arlen** · 29th February 08, 11:52 AM

I know that there's a good chance of me being deployed.

Right now I am seriously considering taking a career with The Idaho air national guard.
My concerns are more to do with how soon Diane and I would have to be parted so I am looking into what careers I could have with them and how soon I would be shipped out.

We'll see how it all goes in the end.

Whatever happens I will find some way to do good and get by!