How to give back (One for the Americans)

[davedove]

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]

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

[davedove]

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]

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!

[J.B. Simpson]

You could always become an EMT and work for a Fire Department depending on what area of Idaho you are moving to. Even if you get another full time job you could still volunteer as a FF/EMT. As mentioned earlier hospitals also use EMT's from time to time to assist their staff.

Good luck in whatever you decide!

[James MacMillan]

Arlen - you have had some great suggestions here about different professions to look into - I would offer another take on the situation. Don't look for a job - look for a way of living. There is an underground movement called "Pay it forward" that is a life style not a specific job. Live your life by the Golden Rule. Treat others as you would want to be treated. Seek to make life better for your fellow humans, and it won't matter if you are a garbage collector or a priest. Each profession can be a calling. Act with honor and integrity in everything you do. You won't go wrong!

[SteveB]

Arlen,
I do not know your skills, but would suggest that you come over and get settled in by finding some local employment. As soon as you can get a motor vehicle operators license, I would look into the local school system special needs program, they always need people to drive the kids to the program, and move stuff around. Around here the contractors supply the vehicle and you get to use it when off duty. It also gives you a small paycheck. As you get to drive around, you will learn the area and what is available in the community. Locally a gentleman who was regularly transporting a special needs student showed so much care for his young ones, that he was hired into the school program and sent to school pre-paid. He is now getting a much better paycheck and is in a decent school environment. He is also employed giving nature talks through one of our city parks programmes. The young ones love his Irish Accent.