Airmen unwind at the River’s Edge

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Raughton
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Work, finances and relationships are all things that can create stress, but thankfully, there's a place Airmen can go to relax and take their minds off of their stressors.

At the River's Edge, Airmen can enjoy almost any of their favorite indoor hobbies by themselves or with their peers without being limited to the confines of the dormitories.

The River's Edge is a spiritual oasis. A place specifically dedicated for ministry to Airmen, inspiring faith, fostering caring relationships, and building an authentic community where Airmen can connect with their spiritual beliefs, one another and with the Chapel staff.

"It's a place away from home where you can forge relationships with others," said Patrick Catanese, 2nd Bomb Wing River's Edge director. "We can get so caught up in our routine and focused on the mission that we lose ourselves. This is a place for Airmen to stay in touch with who they are."

Their mission is to deliver ministry that supports the spiritual journey of Airmen, promoting activities that help Airmen develop healthy relationships, value service to others and build leaders of faith and moral character.

"This is a place designed for Airmen to come and relieve stress," said Catanese. "It's a place where you can leave your rank at the door and just be yourself."

But the River's Edge isn't just a place with wide-screen televisions and guitars. It's also the depot for Airmen Against Drunk Driving volunteers who want to spend a Friday or Saturday night bringing fellow Airmen home safely.

"It's good to be focused, but we need to also maintain our mental and spiritual health," he said. "We're inspiring Airmen to persevere through the power of resiliency."

Not only does the River's Edge provide services for Airmen, but it provides opportunities for Airmen to serve the surrounding community as well. On April 20, River's Edge volunteers will assist efforts to build a home for war veterans which will be located within close proximity of the local VA hospital.

For more information on this and other volunteer opportunities, call 456-2111.