Squadron fundraising can be fun!

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Kristina Newton
  • 1 SOW/PA
Hurlburt Field, Florida --  The 1st Special Operation Communications Squadron booster club has found a wonderful way of raising money for squadron functions. 

They have teamed up with the Contemporary Services Company, a nationwide company contracting staff for entertainment events around the country, to work events in the local area. 

Senior Master Sgt. Jeff Wagner, 1st SOCS mission systems flight superintendent, is the point of contact for this program. He said the program is easy to get into. 

"All you need is a quick training session with the CSC representative and then you're cleared to work any event," Sergeant Wagner said. 

The training is only held every couple of months and can accommodate 20-60 people.
"We just had a training session July 6, so it will probably be August before we have another," he said. "But that's still in time for the start of football season and fall concerts."
Training sessions include information on clothing requirements, customer service and a brief history of the company. 

"It's really easy to make a few hundred dollars in a night with this program," Sergeant Wagner said. "The program pays every person by the hour, with fall events happening soon, it's a good way to fund a holiday party." 

Although the individual is working for the company; all salaries are grouped and paid to the 1st SOCS booster club, which then divides the money amongst the participating squadrons. Right now, nine other squadrons participate in this program. 

Staff Sgt. Mitchell Mason, 1st SOCS quality assurance, has been to some very exciting events. 

"I got to work the Tool and Hinder concerts; it was a lot of fun," said Sergeant Mason. "Especially when I worked the barricade between the crowd and the stage, being that close to the band was cool." 

Senior Airman Curt Ellcessor, also with the 1st SOCS, worked at the Larry the Cable Guy show. 

"My job was to guard his trailer and his family; it was great," Airman Ellcessor said. "They brought out a big screen T.V. for me and all kinds of food and drinks." 

"Not only does this activity earn money for the squadron but it also lets you see shows and concerts for free," Sergeant Wagner said. 

Any unit interested in participating in the fundraisers should contact Sergeant Wagner at 884-3281 or through email at Jeffory.Wagner@hurlburt.af.mil.