Key Support Liaison
The Key Support Liaison (KSL) is a volunteer selected and appointed in writing by the Unit Commander (CC) to act as an official unit readiness representative. The KSL serves as a trusted agent between unit leadership and families. The KSL works with unit Commander’s Key Support Team to plan, coordinate and execute the unit CKSP through two-way communication and community information and referral.
The KSL serves as the focal point for communication with spouses/families and actively markets the program through visibility at unit CC calls, unit or base events, and by deliberate communication through phone, e-mail or social networks. Through leadership and community connections, the KSL effectively communicates unit information and community resources to families. The KSL is an advocate for families.
Guidance
The Key Support Guide provides Commanders with information and resources to help units manage their official Key Support Program. The guide is designed to provide a practical approach to develop an effective unit program, with tips and tools to assist in recruiting, interviewing, and selecting unit Key Support Liaison and Key Support Mentors.
Key Support Liaison and Key Support Mentors provide volunteers with information and resources on meeting the expectations of their role set forth by their Unit Commander.
Appointment Process
In order to officially appoint a Key Support Liaison or Key Support Mentor, the Military and Family Readiness Center needs to receive the following items:
Once these forms are complete, email them to sarah.jolly.2@us.af.mil. The Key Support Liaison or Key Support Mentor nominee will be contacted with training instruction.
Training Requirements
Training for Key Support is offered individually by the Military and Family Readiness Center, with the exception of continuing education trainings.
Key Support Liaison Initial Training: Currently, there are three (3) required “standardized trainings” offered within the CKSP (Initial training, Immersion and Mentor training). Initial training can be taken virtually. Initial Training is for all newly “officially” appointed KSLs and KSMs. Both KSLs and KSMs cannot act in an official capacity until the Initial Training has been completed. The CKSP Initial Training consists of five (5) standardized modules and training time is approximately three (3) hours.
KSLs/KSMs must coordinate with both their Commander and the M&FRC before they initiate the CKSP Virtual Initial Training. Prior to taking the virtual training an “official” appointment letter must be on file with the M&FRC and in the KSL’s/KSM’s unit.
Key Support Liaison Immersion Training: KSL/KSM who complete the initial training virtually are required to complete an immersion training. KSL/KSMs who complete a permanent change of station (PCS) are not required to re-accomplish Initial Training however, they must complete an immersion training. The immersion training covers installation specific information that is important for your role as a KLS/KSM, as well as a brief recap of the initial training.
Key Support Mentor Training: Mentor Training can vary from 1-2 hours in length, depending upon class size and interaction during customized scenarios. Mentor Training is a one-time mandatory training for all new KSMs and is intended to be taken after Initial Key Support Training. Mentor training is not offered virtually at this time.
Continuing Education Training: Mandatory training provided on a quarterly basis that the Key Support Liaison or Key Support Mentor must attend in order to maintain their status. Training is facilitated by the Military and Family Readiness Center in-person or virtually. Topics include Suicide Awareness, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SARP), Relocation/EFMP/SLO Resources, and American Red Cross.
Key Support Forms
Helpful Documents
Additional Key Support Resources
Click the links below to be redirected to an external website or document:
- Military and Family Readiness Center Facebook Page
- Military Child Care
- Military Spouses Education and Career Opportunities
- National Resource Directory
- Spouse Employment Facebook Page
- Spouse Resiliency Website/Toolkit
- Five and Thrive Guides
- Tricare
- Voting
- American Red Cross: 1.800.733.2767
- Chapel: 781.225.5501
- DOD Safe Helpline: 1.877.995.5247
- Equal Opportunity: 781.225.6397
- Family Advocacy: 781.225.6385
- Military and Family Life Counselor: 781.315.7992 (Adult) or 781.654.1727 (Child/Youth)
- Military OneSource: 1.800.342.9647
- National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Dial 988
- Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then press 1