In the background is Mary Jane Fletcher-Hermes, center, the director of Army Community Service, and Lilie Jackson, whose husband, Eric is going to Bosnia. It's not typical for a corporation to take the breadwinner away for months. Another difference is cost. While private companies are in business to make money, the military is not. Fort Carson became the first Army post to pull together agencies that usually are in separate locations such as community service, chaplains, Red Cross, volunteer and job placement, and a wellness center.
Officials like to say the center cares for the mind, body and spirit.
The Army has been increasing its services to families for years. When Carson soldiers are deployed to Bosnia, a support network will be in place. Besides the Family Readiness Center, every family will be part of a support group to help with any emergencies. At the center, officials expect business will pick up a month or so after the soldiers leave. The center also is home to several computers that will allow family in Colorado Springs to talk directly, in real time, to relatives serving in Bosnia.