As the Exceptional Family Member Program Manager, I live and breathe the essence of the Family Covenant. I am dedicated and committed to making a difference in the lives of the people I serve. I serve the Families of Soldiers who have been identified with Special Needs, on a daily basis, I advocate so parents will know the laws so they can be empowered to fight for their kids rights, I coordinate so Families can get the services they are entitled to; i.e. one story dwellings, environmental safe housing, information about resources, grants and special initiatives, I teach, to educate my parents on the conditions they have and how to deal with them, I provide Respite, and find Respite for the Caretakers of the individuals who have Special Needs, and I mentor when needed. This program helps to support the quality of life for the Exceptional Families. The strength of the Soldiers comes from the strength of their Families, if they have a strong supportive environment, they can thrive and be resilient.

I am not reaching all my Families, I want to be able to go to different units, advertise more aggressively, and provide the same caring services, the dedication and commitment to all of our clients in 2009.

-Pamela Rachalmand