Ombudsman Program
HSWL RP Kodiak
Ombudsmen are appointed by their respective command and expected to understand and support command policy and effectively work with command and the active duty Coast Guard members and families.
Unit Ombudsmen are volunteers and are usually a spouse, reservist or auxiliarists.
The role of the Ombudsman is to refer families to appropriate sources of assistance in resolving family related questions.
Attributes of the role of the Ombudsman include:
1. Familiarity with Coast
Guard missions, organizations and traditions
2. Ability to articulate family member concerns and serve as an advocate
3. Ability to direct persons with family concerns to appropriate Coast
Guard or community resources
Unit Ombudsman efforts are coordinated through the Work-Life Ombudsman Coordinator. The Ombudsman Coordinator works under the direction and supervision of the Commander responsible for Integrated Support Command Work Life Programs.
The Coordinator serves as the point of contact for unit ombudsman and conducts annual training sessions.
Training topics include:
Legal Assistance
CISM / EAP
Housing and Relocation
Family Advocacy
Family Special Needs
Health Promotion
Decedent Affairs
Finance and Credit Counseling Resources
Red Cross Assistance and Advocacy
Tricare and Benefit Assistance
Mutual Assistance / Education Loans and Grants
Communication Skills
Discharge / Retirement Planning
I AM AN OMBUDSMAN
I am not a crutch
But I can support you
I am not a counselor
But I know how to reach one
I am not a taxi driver
But I can steer you in the right direction
I am not a rescuer
But I can help save lives
I am not a baby sitter
But I can refer you to a caregiver
I am not a gossiper
But I am a great listener
I an not an enabler
But I can provide tools to empower you
I am not a master of anything
But I know many experts who understand your needs
I am not a Recreation or Health Specialist
But I am concerned about your morale, well being, and health
I am not a busybody as I’ve been called
But I am a Coast Guard Ombudsman
I am a Coast Guard Family Ombudsman
And I am of service to you—The Coast Guard Family
Shared by Kaye Morris on Our House
Adobe Acrobat Reader (PDF)