Community center changes to better accommodate customers

  • Published
  • 3rd Services Squadron
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  If you have not been over to the Arctic Oasis Community Center lately, then you are not aware of new policy changes and variety of equipment available. 

The community center hosted several focus groups in December to solicit new and innovative ideas to help the 3rd Services Squadron better meet the needs of the Elmendorf community. 

Two major areas of concern highlighted by the groups were: age limitations to utilizing the Arctic Oasis and accessibility of fitness equipment for youth. 

The existing policy encouraged all patrons and youth to be registered and children had to have guardian supervision up to the age of 13. The new policy now allows youth, ages 13 years and older, to come into the facility alone, but a parental waiver is still needed if they want to check out equipment. Services also encourages all teens to check out the teen center which is still located behind the skate park. 

The center purchased an array of youth fitness equipment which is designed to be developmentally appropriate while youth are beginning their physical training. Youth aged 10-13 are eligible to use this equipment plus the cardiovascular equipment once they have completed a certification class through the Health and Wellness Center. 

This class is designed for parents and youth to learn the basics of developmental physical training and instruction on use of equipment. Youth aged 14-16 may attend the class without a parent, but with a signed permission slip. 

The Arctic Oasis did not stop there; they posted new signage throughout the building to clearly advertise upcoming programs and hours of operation. The outdoor marquee was updated to assist patrons with facility events and offerings. New play activities have been ordered for the two year old area and will be in place soon. New preschooler programming, the Arts and Crafts Hour, has been implemented on Mondays and Wednesdays to help children stay involved in activities while their parents work out. 

The community center is constantly evolving to ensure the Elmendorf Community needs are being met. The 3rd Services Squadron continues to solicit customer feedback and ideas to improve its facilities and programs. 

For more information about the Arctic Oasis Community Center, call Karl Croft at 552-8529.