Barksdale Officers' Spouse's Club helps support Team Barksdale

Members of the Barksdale Officers' Spouse's Club show various styles during a fashion show function on Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Dec. 9, 2014. The BOSC is a non-profit organization that fosters friendships and comradery amongst the spouses as well as helps build confidence and an understanding of the military lifestyle from the spousal perspective. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Kristin High)

Barksdale Officer's Spouse's Club helps support Team Barksdale

Published Dec. 16, 2014
By Senior Airman Kristin High
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- The Barksdale Officers' Spouse's Club is one of many non-profit organizations that support Airmen and their families here.

The organization also fosters friendships and camaraderie among spouses as well as helping to build confidence and understanding of the military lifestyle from the spousal perspective.

"Our mission is to create a supportive, comfortable arena for our members to explore social connections, volunteerism and educational opportunities," said Amy Waring, BOSC president. "Currently we have more than 80 members."

It is an organization that supports many charitable endeavors for base and national charities through fundraisers and other events.

"We hold a silent auction each year with donated items that have historical significance or are from local businesses to help raise money," said Waring. "Some of the items we've previously auctioned included the first moon landing newspaper clippings and a diamond necklace donated by a local jeweler."

In 2014, the BOSC raised and donated more than $18,000 to various charities including Operation Bright Holiday, Hap House, Santa's in Blue, the base library and many more.

Besides biannual fundraisers, the BOSC also has monthly functions for all members to attend along with small groups, which provide a more intimate setting for members.

"BOSC small clubs are a great way to get to know other members," said Waring.

Some of the small groups include a book club, bowling, Bunco, golf, gourmet, fitness and play dates.

"I love the small groups in particular because they've helped me get to know people since I first moved here last year," said Valerie Nicholas, BOSC member. "I attended the December social event in 2013 and really enjoyed it and I've been a member ever since."

The club is not only comprised of commander's or pilot's spouses.

"I would love to see more of the younger or newer spouses join," said Nicholas. "The club has helped me learn so much as an Air Force spouse and the women here are a great support system."

For more information on the Barksdale Officers' Spouse's Club, visit the website at www.barksdaleosc.com.