UNITE Program
Funds For Fun!
The Unite program empowers unit/flight commanders to create new opportunities for recreational and cohesive activities to strengthen the bond between members within the unit. All assigned Air Force and Space Force Active Duty, Reserve, Guard and civilian (appropriated and non-appropriated) members are authorized Unite funds. Total funding is based on the unit’s manning document, which is comprised of all personnel.
“The Beating Heart of the Air Force … Squadrons!”
The Air Force requires leaders to take care of their Airmen—mental, physical, social, and spiritual.
Science shows that having fun enhances work productivity, increases confidence, builds trust, improves communication, and reduces stress. Additional benefits demonstrate:
- Connection is a proven protective factor of violence and suicide prevention.
- Reduces individual isolation.
- Reduces individual disciplinary actions .
- Feedback from participants proves that Unite works!
Allocations & Funding:
The Program grants $13.50 (APF) per person assigned to a unit for recreational activities with an additional allotment of $5 (NAF) per person for food in conjunction with the event. All money is allocated on a calendar year basis.
WE PAY & YOU PLAY IN 5 EASY STEPS!
1. Complete the Unite POC Appointment Letter
Commanders will appoint a squadron/unit Unite POC, in writing, to the installation C3. Email the signed letter to the C3 at lona.berndt@us.af.mil
2. Event Request/Proposal:
Complete the Unite Request Form at least 10 days prior to the event and email to C3. Plan activities that contribute to unit cohesion and encourage squadron personnel to participate. All events must be recreational, and activity based to utilize UNITE funds. A Unite event can take place on or off the installation through a wide range of options, etc. One asset at your fingertips is the Eglin Outdoor Recreation (ODR) Program. Airmen are fortunate to have Eglin’s ODR for all their outdoor recreational needs; utilizing Unite funds to rent the myriads of water and land toys is a great way to expose Airmen to the beautiful Emerald Coast, while building a strong cohesive team.
CLICK HERE FOR EVENT IDEAS . . .
- The EGLIN BEACH PARK on Okaloosa Island (off Hwy 98) is an exclusive beach property on the Gulf, open only to Military and DoD affiliated personnel. Pavilions, Showers and Restrooms, and Recreational Equipment are available.
- POSTL POINT is beachfront property on Eglin, with Sand Volleyball, Pavilions, Axe Throwing (see below), Cornhole, Giant Jenga and Connect 4, Bocce Ball, and more.
- OUTDOOR RECREATION RENTALS include Pontoon Boats (single or double-decker — with a slide!), Kayaks, Canoes, Stand-up Paddle Boards, and Fishing Boats for a fun-filled day on the beautiful Emerald Coast.
- The EGLIN POOL can be rented by Squadrons and Units for a private pool party, with a Lifeguard included.
- CAMPING PACKAGES from Outdoor Rec include Tents, Lanterns, Sleeping Bags, Grills, Portable Toilet, etc.
- AXE THROWING can be enjoyed anywhere on the installation with “The Choppin’ Block” Mobile Axe Throwing Trailer.
- BOUNCE HOUSES and other “private party” rentals can include Snow Cone Machines, Seafood Boilers, and small or large Deep Fryers.
- The JUMBOTRON big screen is perfect for an outdoor movie night, with popcorn included.
- EGLIN GOLF COURSE can be reserved for private functions, on the course and in the clubhouse. There’s the Driving Range and Putting Greens, the 9-hole Falcon Course, and 18-hole Eagle Course.
- ITT ATTRACTION TICKETS can be purchased for $13.50 OFF each ticket price by using your UNITE funds to subsidize the cost per ticket. This expands your event possibilities to include off-base attractions with admission tickets made available through Eglin ITT, such as the Gulfarium, Blue Wahoos Baseball, Pelican Adventures, and so many more!
UNIT DEVELOPED EVENTS
Squadrons and units are welcome to develop and organize their own customized event to make it everything they wish it to be! UNITE funds can be used to subsidize costs in the amount of $13.50 per person.
Examples:
- Amusement Parks
- Water Parks
- Movie Theaters
- Escape Rooms
- Painting With A Twist
- DJ Entertainment
- Goofy Golf
. . . and plenty more!
3. Event Prep:
Once the event is approved, confirm the date and time with the venue and coordinate the payments with your C3. All payments must be paid tax-exempt by the C3 via NAF PCard. All off-base vendors must have a valid 889 form on file prior to payment. Requesting units will NOT be reimbursed for any purchases made via personal credit cards, checks, or cash.
4. Have Fun At Your Event!
5. Submit After Action Report:
The installation C3 won’t be attending your UNITE events so we are relying on you to provide feedback to improve the UNITE program. Complete the AAR form and submit at least 5 photos to C3 within 5 business days.
Questions?
For additional information and details, please contact the Eglin C3, Lona Berndt at 850-883-4255 or via email at lona.berndt@us.af.mil