INTRO

Living in Italy presents unique challenges. Sponsors play a vital role in allowing the newcomer to get settled in and feel at home. The newcomer starts their tour with either a positive or negative feeling depending on the sponsorship experience they have received. The below information and resources have been prepared to allow the relocation be positive.

SPONSOR CHECKLIST

This checklist covers all the critical items that sponsors need to accomplish before attending Right Start such as applying for passport(s)/visa(s) for family members, completing the AFI Driver’s License online, obtaining a post office box, etc.

Sponsor Checklist

SPONSOR CONTACT

Establish communication early. The goal is to make contact the same day as being appointed sponsor. In all cases, contact within seven days. In the below sample contact (e-mail, letter, etc.) are some guidelines.

Sponsor Contact Guidelines

SPONSOR PACKAGES

Due to cost constraints and the introduction of various online, real-time resources such as Plan My Move, Military One Source, etc. (see RESOURCES to the right), sponsor packages are no longer in monstrous envelopes. At the same time, newcomers like to receive copies of the Compass, flyers, youth program info, local area info, etc. The goal is to tailor a package that would help the newcomer settle in and feel at home.

SPONSOR TRAINING

Monthly the A&FRC offers a Sponsorship Training class (typically the first and third Wednesday from 1430 - 1600) that covers all aspects (pre-arrival, arrival and post arrival). Sign up by calling 632-5407. See the monthly calendar at the A&FRC web site. USAFE now requires E-sponsorship training to be accomplished prior to attending Aviano specific sponsorship training. Information on e-sponsorship can be found here.

Sponsorship Training

If you are inbound to Aviano and do not know who your sponsor is, send us an E-mail and we will be happy to connect you with a sponsor. Please include the unit you will be assigned to, your expected arrival date and contact information. We'll contact your gaining unit to ensure a sponsor is assigned and makes contact with you.