s encls donald l. rutherford 1. annex a: program admin/mgt chaplain (major general) usa 2 ... mgt...

S: 31 August 2012

DACH-ZA 26 July 2012 MEMORANDUM FOR SEE DISTRIBUTION SUBJECT: Memorandum of Instruction - Total Army Fiscal Year 2013 Strong Bonds Program Management, Resourcing and Training 1. Purpose. This memorandum of instruction establishes responsibilities, policies and procedures for conducting Strong Bonds training and submission of funding requests for fiscal year 2013. This applies to all Active Component, Reserve Component, and Army National Guard units. Unit Ministry Teams will comply with enclosed guidance when conducting training under the Strong Bonds name and/or using funds as part of the program. 2. General. Strong Bonds is a key resiliency program designed to increase Soldier readiness by assisting commanders in building and strengthening the structure of Army Families. It may be incorporated as part of the command’s Soldier readiness and retention initiatives. It is a preventative skills-based relationship building program led by Army chaplains. Twelve hours of Strong Bonds training is required annually for Soldiers and Family members to gain the most benefit from participation in the program. The Army Chief of Chaplains is the proponent. 3. Annual Training Requests. Strong Bonds annual training requests are due NLT COB 31 August 2012. Guidance for submitting requests is outlined at paragraph 8, Annex A. 4. Point of Contact. Headquarters, Department of the Army point of contact for the Strong Bonds Program is Mr. George Watlington Jr., HQDA Strong Bonds Program Manager, (703) 545-5793, [email protected]. 10 Encls DONALD L. RUTHERFORD 1. Annex A: Program Admin/Mgt Chaplain (Major General) USA 2. Annex B: Program Standards Chief of Chaplains 3. Annex C: Program Curriculum 4. Annex D: Funding Request Format 5. Annex E: Duty Appointment Memo 6. Annex F: After Action Report Format 7. Annex G: Support Services Authorization 8. Annex H: Strong Bonds Instructor Training 9. Annex I: Strong Bonds Training Assessment 10. Annex J: Validation of Services Received DISTRIBUTION: COMMANDER, U.S. ARMY FORCES COMMAND U.S. ARMY TRAINING AND DOCTRINE COMMAND U.S. ARMY MATERIAL COMMAND

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF CHAPLAINS

2700 ARMY PENTAGON WASHINGTON DC 20310-2700

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DACH-ZA SUBJECT: Memorandum of Instruction - Total Army Fiscal Year 2013 Strong Bonds Program Management, Resourcing and Training DISTRIBUTION: (CONT) U.S. ARMY EUROPE U.S. ARMY CENTRAL U.S. ARMY NORTH U.S. ARMY SOUTH U.S. ARMY PACIFIC U.S. ARMY AFRICA U.S. ARMY SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND MILITARY SURFACE DEPLOYMENT AND DISTRIBUTION COMMAND U.S. ARMY SPACE AND MISSILE DEFENSE COMMAND/ARMY FORCES STRATEGIC COMMAND EIGHTH U.S. ARMY U.S. ARMY NETWORK ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY COMMAND/9TH SIGNAL COMMAND (ARMY) U.S. ARMY MEDICAL COMMAND U.S. ARMY INTELLIGENCE AND SECURITY COMMAND U.S. ARMY CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION COMMAND U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS U.S. ARMY MILITARY DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON U.S. ARMY TEST AND EVALUATION COMMAND U.S. ARMY RESERVE COMMAND U.S. ARMY INSTALLATION MANAGEMENT COMMAND SUPERINTENDENT, UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY DIRECTOR, U.S. ARMY ACQUISITION SUPPORT CENTER CHIEF, NATIONAL GUARD BUREAU CF: COMMANDANT, US ARMY CHAPLAINS CENTER AND SCHOOL

Annex A – Program Administration and Management

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1. Program Focus. Strong Bonds is the Army’s program designed to assist commanders in building, strengthening, preserving and restoring Army Families. Unit Ministry Teams also conduct specialized training for single Soldiers. The program has a brigade centric focus for the active component, state focus for the ARNG, and a region based approach for the USAR.

a. Program Components. Strong Bonds has four (4) program components: Single Soldiers, Married Couples, Families and Phases of Deployment.

(1) Strong Bonds for Singles. Focuses on skills for building a great relationship, managing expectations, making healthy choices, coping, resiliency, and finding the right partner.

(2) Strong Bonds for Married Couples. Strengthens the marital bond, giving couples the tools and

information they need for better communication and relationship building. (3) Strong Bonds – Families. Teaches effective communication and listening skills to parents and

children; builds parental skills to help care for and manage children. Note. Children are active participants for all Strong Bonds – Families Retreats.

(4) Strong Bonds – Families of Deployed. Provides the tools to enable Families to not just survive,

but thrive in the midst of their Soldier’s deployment. Note. Children are active participants for all Strong Bonds – Families of Deployed Training events.

(5) Strong Bonds – PreDeployment. Module(s) identifying unique challenges single Soldiers, married

couples, and Army Families will face and planning how they will manage their relationships through the stress of pre-deployment.

(6) Strong-Bonds – Reintegration. Provides tools to assist Soldiers and their Families with issues

pertaining to the transition from the battlefield to the home front, as Family members adjust to disrupted routines and challenges of reconnection.

b. Training Methodology. Strong Bonds events are conducted in a relaxed, stress free environment conducive for learning relationship skills and developing strategies to address the impact of repeated deployments, resiliency, and conflict. Commanders are encouraged to offer incentives to promote voluntary Soldier and Family member participation. Training may be conducted during duty hours, after duty hours, and during weekends.

(1) Strong Bonds Alpha. Four (4) hours of structured training conducted locally in a military or commercial facility. At a minimum, two (2) hours will consist of approved Strong Bonds curriculum; additional time may be needed depending on curriculum training requirements. Units may also conduct up to two (2) hours of discretionary relationship skills training based on unit needs assessment.

(2) Strong Bonds Bravo. Eight (8) hours of training conducted locally in a military or commercial facility. At a minimum, four (4) hours will consist of approved Strong Bonds curriculum; additional time may be needed depending on curriculum training requirements. Units may also conduct up to four (4) hours of discretionary relationship skills training based on unit needs assessment.

(3) Strong Bonds Charlie. Twelve (12) hours of training, conducted overnight in a commercial offsite venue away from the installation, armory, or reserve center. At a minimum, six (6) hours will consist of approved Strong Bonds curriculum; additional time may be needed depending on curriculum training requirements. Units may also conduct up to six (6) hours of discretionary relationship skills training based on unit needs assessment.


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Note. Strong Bonds Alpha and Bravo training approaches are applicable for the Active Component only, optional for the ARNG and USAR as determined by the Component Strong Bonds Program Manager.

2. Program Eligibility. Title 10, Chapter 88, Section 1789 and paragraph 16-6e AR 165-1 (Annex G) provides the authority for participation in chaplain led events.

a. Active duty Soldiers, reserve component (ARNG and USAR) Soldiers in an active status, and their immediate family members are eligible to participant in Strong Bonds training events. Immediate family members mean;

(1) The member’s spouse; and

(2) Any child of the member as described in 10 USC 1072, subparagraph (2)(D) and subparagraph (6).

b. Currently, no authority exists for DA Civilians to participate in the Strong Bonds Program. HQDA AFAP Issue 674, Strong Bonds Program for Deployed Department of Army Civilians (DACs) and Family Members is currently being worked/staffed through HQDA and the legislative process with the goal of authorizing deploying DACs and their Families to participate in the Strong Bonds Program during pre-deployment, deployment, and reintegration.

c. Service members and their Families from other services may attend Army Strong Bonds events on a space available basis only as indicated below.

(1) Participation is permitted in small numbers when Army slots are not filled due to no shows for events, last minute cancellations by participants, and no recuperation of funds by the Army is possible due to contracting requirements.

(2) In locations where there is a large joint population and the primary means of chaplain support is provided by the Army, participation must be funded by the respective Service Branch. 3. Program Standards. Strong Bonds program standards are outlined at Annex B. Units utilizing DACH, ARNG, USARC, ACOM/ASCC/DRU or local command funding will comply with all program requirements. To maintain program effectiveness, all Soldiers and Families participating in the Strong Bonds Program will receive 12 hours of training annually. At a minimum, instruction will comprise 6 hours of DACH approved Strong Bonds curriculum and 6 hours of unit defined relationship skills and education training. The modular training sessions as outlined in Annex C will be utilized to standardize training instruction and provide flexibility for Soldiers and Families to attend training in any sequence. Required training hours may be met through the following delivery options: a. Option 1: Three (3) sequential Strong Bonds Alpha (4 hours) training events conducted daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly at unit’s discretion. b. Option 2: One (1) Strong Bonds Bravo (8 hours) and one (1) Strong Bonds Alpha (4 hours) training event. c. Option 3: One (1) Strong Bonds Charlie (12 hours) training event. d. Due to funding constraints, the percentage of events which may be conducted for each training combination is indicated below:

(1) Three-tiered: Strong Bonds Alpha (50%); Strong Bonds Bravo (25%), Strong Bonds Charlie (25%)


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(2) Two-tiered: Strong Bonds Alpha (50%); Strong Bonds Bravo (50%)

(3) Single-tiered: Either Strong Bonds Alpha (100%), Strong Bonds Bravo (100%) or Strong Bonds Charlie (100%)

Note: The single-tiered option will require an increased number of events to meet the 12 hour annual training requirement if Strong Bonds Alpha or Strong Bonds Bravo is the only training delivery method. For executing Strong Bonds Charlie only, the number of events will be limited based on the availability of funding. 4. Program Resourcing. The authority to expend funds for implementing the Strong Bonds Program is contained in Title 10, United States Code Section 1789 and paragraph 16-6e, AR 165-1 (See Annex F attached). There are two primary sources of funding for Strong Bonds. a. Local command appropriated funds: Commanders are authorized and encouraged to utilize locally available funds as needed to support the program. All authorized expenditures (transportation, food, lodging, child care, supplies, fees, and training materials) may be paid utilizing these funds. b. Supplemental funds: These funds may be available from the Department of the Army Chief of Chaplains (DACH) office for active component units, US Army Reserve Command (USARC) Chaplains Office for reserve component units and the National Guard Bureau Office of the Chaplain for Army National Guard (ARNG) units. All authorized expenditures (transportation, food, lodging, child care, supplies, fees, and training materials) may be paid utilizing these funds. c. Combining resources: There may be circumstances where multiple sources of funding may be needed to support an event. When combining local appropriated command funds and supplemental funds to support an event, costs will be segregated. At a minimum, supplemental funds will be used to support lodging, conference space, training curriculum and food. Local command funds should be used to cover costs for transportation, childcare, and any other authorized expense not covered by supplemental funding. d. Active Component Priority for support: Supplemental funding will be used to provide support in the following priority order. (1) Strong Bonds Alpha and Strong Bonds Bravo Events:

- Priority 1: Curriculum - Priority 2: Food - Priority 3: Childcare

(2) Strong Bonds Charlie Events:

- Priority 1: Lodging - Priority 2: Conference space

- Priority 3: Curriculum - Priority 4: Food (3 meals limit - costs will not exceed meal per diem rate for each location) - Priority 5: Childcare - Priority 6: Audiovisual Support - Priority 7: Transportation (Charter bus, commercial vans, etc) Note: Local resources, if available, should also be pursued to help fund Priority 3 for Strong Bonds Alpha and Strong Bonds Bravo events, and Priority 5-7 for Strong Bonds Charlie events. e. Reserve Component Priority for support: The ARNG Strong Bonds Program Manager and USAR Strong Bonds Program Manager will establish funding priorities for their respective components as needed to meet mission requirements.

http://uscode.house.gov/uscode-cgi/fastweb.exe?getdoc+uscview+usclass+476+0++%28%29%20%20A

http://www.apd.army.mil/jw2/xmldemo/r165_1/main.asp#s11-16g


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5. Program Curriculum. The foundation for the Strong Bonds curriculum is comprised of training material from the most sought after and respected practitioners of faith-based and secular relationship building programs. The curriculum identified in Annex C is the only authorized material to be utilized by UMTs when conducting Strong Bonds events. Training sessions, as outlined in Annex C, will be followed. Only one curriculum (i.e. PREP, LINKS, etc) will be presented per training event; the mixing of materials is not authorized. Intent is to consistently provide training that is modular, sequential, and can be evaluated for effectiveness throughout the Army. Once the minimum curriculum hours or training requirements are met, the remaining programmed time will be focused on relationship enhancing activities at the discretion of the UMT. 6. Instructor Certification Training. All chaplains, chaplain assistants, and Strong Bonds Volunteer Instructors (Spouses) must be trained and certified in specific Strong Bonds curriculum prior to leading a training session during Strong Bonds training events. Certification will be obtained through attendance to the Strong Bonds Instructor Training Course or approved curriculum taught at the US Army Chaplain School. a. Subject to evolving DOD and Army conference policies, dates and locations for conduct of the Strong Bonds Instructor Training Course are listed at Annex H. b. For approved training conferences, HQDA (DACH-SFM) will publish a memorandum of instruction (MOI) prior to each event.

7. Program Emphasis for FY13. Critical to obtaining predictable and consistent program resourcing is the timely and accurate reporting of information, completion/follow-up on administrative and budgetary requirements, and adherence to program standards. Funding for FY13 and beyond is forecasted to be at significantly reduced levels. Unit ministry teams must judiciously utilize resources while continuing to provide effective relationship skills training and education to Soldiers and their Families. Areas of emphasis for FY 2013 include:

a. All components:

(1) Improved Strong Bonds Website. Focus will continue on improving the www.strongbonds.org web site to ensure HQDA and the service components have access to real time program metrics, validate training requirements, simplify reporting, provide tools to UMTs for event management, and provide Soldiers and Family members information on scheduled Strong Bonds training events.

(2) After Action Reporting. Continued close monitoring to ensure after action reports (AARs) are

completed in a timely manner. AARs will be due within 14 days after the completion of each event for active component units. ARNG and USAR reports are due within 30 days after each event. To increase accountability and ensure reports are submitted; funding will be linked to compliance with reporting requirements.

(3) Strong Bonds Program Managers (SBPM). To streamline the administration and management of

the Strong Bonds Program, program managers will be designated at the Army Command (ACOM), Army Service Component Commands (ASCC), Direct Reporting Units (DRU) and brigade level for the active component, state level for the ARNG, and region level for the USAR. Sample duty appointment is attached at Annex D.

(4) Training Assessments/Surveys. At the completion of each Strong Bonds event, all participants will

complete a HQDA Training Assessment/Survey (Annex I). Survey instrument will be standardized for each event type (couples, Families, singles) and distributed by the Office of the Chief of Chaplains. Training assessment will be used to gauge participant’s reaction and assist in measuring the impact and effectiveness of the Strong Bonds Program.


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b. Active Component

(1) HQDA Centralized Contract Support. All Strong Bonds training events will be coordinated through a single centralized contract. This business model will minimize the time and effort required by UMTs to coordinate food, lodging, childcare etc, and provide greater flexibility for event execution. Timely resourcing for events will also be an added benefit.

(2) Armed Forces Recreation Center (AFRC) Use. The use of the Armed Forces Recreation Centers

(Edelweiss, Hale Koa, and Dragon Hill) is optional at applicable OCONUS locations, is highly encouraged whenever possible, and should be considered when conducting site selection for training venue.

(3) Childcare Support. Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) will be the first option for childcare support for Strong Bonds Training events. The 2nd option for support should be any childcare agency affiliated with the National Association of Childcare Resource & Referral Agencies (NACCRRA), www.naccrra.org or other agency as recommended by CYSS. Support from CYSS to implement the Volunteer Childcare in a Unit Setting Program (VCCUS) should also be considered.

c. ARNG and USAR: HQDA centralized contract support may be available to support Strong Bonds

training events as determined by the respective Component Strong Bonds Program Managers.

8. Responsibilities.

a. Office of the Chief of Chaplains, Soldier and Family Ministry Directorate (DACH-SFM). (1) Serve as proponent for the Total Army Strong Bonds Program establishing program policies,

standards, and requirements for the Active Component, ARNG, and USAR. (2) Manage the Strong Bonds program for the Active Component of the Army.

(3) Monitor the administration of funding for program. (4) Collate and analyze program evaluation/outcomes for the Total Army. (5) Serve as program administrator for the Strong Bonds website. (6) Coordinate, manage, and execute training in required Strong Bonds curriculums for the Total Army.

b. USARC Office of the Chaplain.

(1) Manage the Strong Bonds program for the US Army Reserve.

(2) Coordinate with DACH-SFM to ensure consistent program policies and requirements are executed

throughout the Total Army. (3) Manage the administration of funding for reserve component units. (4) Collect AARs and program evaluations from Reserve Component units. Participate in analysis to

ensure best practices are disseminated across the Total Army. (5) Assist DACH-SFM in conducting and executing the Strong Bonds Instructor Course

http://www.naccrra.org/


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(6) Support Total Army Strong Bonds training for UMT members.

c. ARNG Staff Chaplain Office. (1) Manage the Strong Bonds program for the Army National Guard. (2) Manage the administration of funds and have oversight on distribution for the Army National Guard either through the Senior Army Chaplain for each state or direct funding through the United States Property and Fiscal Officer as mission dictates. (3) Coordinate with DACH-SFM to ensure consistent program policies and requirements are executed throughout the Total Army. (4) Collect AARs and program evaluations from Army National Guard units. Participate in analysis to ensure best practices are disseminated across the Total Army. (5) Assist DACH-SFM in conducting and executing the Strong Bonds Instructor Training Course (6) Support Total Army Strong Bonds training for UMT members. d. Commanders.

(1) Approve annual Strong Bonds training plan. (2) Resource and execute Strong Bonds in accordance with command training plan and requirements

established in this memorandum. As required, seek supplemental program funding from the appropriate component.

(3) Appoint/designate Strong Bonds Program Managers at the ACOM/ASCC/DRU and brigade level for

the active component, state level for the ARNG, and for the USAR operational and functional commands, training support commands, and regional support commands.

(4) Support Soldier and family member attendance and ensure training events are included on unit training calendars. (5) Ensure participation by Strong Bonds Program Managers at community events, officer professional development training, NCO professional development training, Family readiness group meetings, etc to market and promote command’s Strong Bonds Program. e. Strong Bonds Program Managers (SBPMs).

(1) Advise subordinate commands on program standards and policy.

(2) Review, approve and submit command’s annual Strong Bonds training plan and funding request to component POCs.

(3) Review and validate the command’s Strong Bonds execution plan each quarter.

(4) Monitor Strong Bonds event execution rates and establish internal controls to ensure events are executed during the quarter that funding is allocated. Approve/adjust event dates (when justified) within the quarter via online event management tool.


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(5) Component and ACOM/ASCC/DRUs SBPMs will monitor and establish internal controls to ensure After Action Reports are completed. Brigade, state, operational and functional command, training support command, and regional support command SBPMs will be responsible for submitting AARs online via the Strong Bonds website. AARs will be submitted within 14 days after the completion of each event for active component units. ARNG and USAR reports are due within 30 days after each event. Training attendance rosters (Excel spreadsheet) will also be submitted in conjunction with AARs.

(6) Conduct random quality assurance evaluations/site visits to Strong Bonds events within command area of responsibility to assess compliance with Chief of Chaplain MOI standards and other regulatory requirements. Provide summary of results to the ACOM/ASCC/DRU, ARNG, USAR or HQDA SBPM at the next higher command level as applicable.

(7) Approve/manage attendance of chaplains, chaplain assistants, and spouses/ volunteers to the Strong Bonds Instructor Training Course.

(8) Market and promote Strong Bonds at community events, officer/NCO professional development training, family readiness group meetings, and other appropriate forums.

(9) ACOM/ASCC/DRUs SBPMs will monitor/ update /grant access to the Strong Bonds website for subordinate level Strong Bonds Program Managers. ARNG and USAR Component SBPMs will control access for their respective component.

(10) At the brigade, state, operational and functional command (OFC), training support command (TSC), and regional support command (RSC) levels – coordinate local contracting requirements in support of Strong Bonds events. Maintain program documents/records in office files.

f. Unit Ministry Teams.

(1) Coordinate annual training plan to include funding requirements with local SBPM and unit training offices; ensure events are posted on the unit training calendar.

(2) Provide input to commanders regarding local funding to support Strong Bonds. (3) Market and promote Strong Bonds events throughout the unit. (4) Prepare/maintain written training schedule outlining sequence of events for each Strong Bonds

event. (5) Prepare/maintain training attendance rosters to document participation for each Strong Bonds event.

Provide electronic training attendance rosters (Excel spreadsheet) to the local SBPM for uploading on the Strong Bonds website.

(6) Conduct Strong Bonds events per annual training plan / unit training calendar (Chaplains, Chaplain Assistants, and Strong Bonds Volunteer Instructors).

(7) Administer HQDA Training Assessment/Survey and forward to the Component Strong Bonds

Program Manager. (8) Complete/provide input for After Action Reports to the local SBPM for each Strong Bonds event

(Annex E). (9) For Active Component events, maintain copies of all invoices, sign validation form (Annex J) and

return to contractor to document government receipt of contracted services .


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(10) Submit all inquiries pertaining to the Strong Bonds Program to the local SBPM.

9. Coordinating Instructions.

a. Strong Bonds Training and Funding Approval: Strong Bonds training requests must be reviewed and approved as indicated below.

(1) Local Approval at Brigade, State, or Region level by commanders (06 or above).

(2) Intermediate Command Approval by ACOM/ASCC/DRU SBPMs (Active Component only)

(3) Component Approval (AC, ARNG, USAR SBPMs)

a. Active Component: The HQDA and AC Strong Bonds Program Manager is Mr. George Watlington Jr., (703) 545-5743, [email protected].

b. Army National Guard: The ARNG Strong Bonds Program Manager is CH (MAJ) Rebekah

Montgomery, (703) 607-7507, [email protected].

c. Army Reserve: The USAR Strong Bonds Program Manager is CH (LTC) James Boggess, (910) 570-8200, [email protected].

b. Annual Training Requests: All training requests (Annex D) will be submitted online at the Strong Bonds website (www.strongbonds.org). Annual training requests are due no later than 31 August 2012. Brigade, State, and Region SBPMs will:

(1) Complete Strong Bonds Annual Training Request (PDF version) and obtain command approval via

digital signature. (2) Complete and submit Strong Bonds Annual Training Request online at the Strong Bonds website

www.strongbonds.org.

(3) Active Component:

a. Brigade SBPMs will email digitally signed PDF requests to their ACOM/ASCC/DRU SBPM. b. ACOM/ASCC/DRU SBPMs will validate/approve and forward all digitally signed requests to

[email protected]. Additionally, all requests must be approved online via the Strong Bonds website at www.strongbonds.org. (4) Army National Guard: State Strong Bonds Program Managers will email digitally signed requests to [email protected].

(5) Army Reserve: OFC/TSC/RSC Strong Bonds Program Managers will email digitally signed

requests to [email protected].

c. Funding Templates. Funding will be provided according to the funding template as outlined in the program standard attached as Annex B.

d. Proper Use of Appropriated Funds. By law, Commanders may use appropriated funds for costs of

transportation, food, lodging, child care, supplies, fees, and training materials for members of the armed forces

mailto:[email protected]



http://www.strongbonds.org/







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and their Family members while participating in Strong Bonds. Appropriated funding cannot be used to fund entertainment. For example, funding for a Strong Bonds – Singles program may be used to fund food, hotel, and a bus to move Soldiers to the training location. However, appropriated funds cannot be used to pay for ski lift tickets, fishing charters, or amusement park tickets. UMTs are encouraged to seek NAF funding for these expenses, or to ask participants to pay these costs personally. This does not preclude the use of or participation in Armed Forces Recreation Center activities or similar commercial establishments where training conferences are conducted.

e. Obligation of Funds: For events funded via MIPR or FAD (ARNG and USAR only), funds must be

obligated no later than 1 August 2013. Additional guidance regarding the return of unobligated funds will be provided by each component through separate correspondence.

Annex B - Strong Bonds Program Standards

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Program Standards: Strong Bonds events will conform to the programmed time, curriculum hours, venue and attendee limits as indicated. Training will be

Chaplain led per Title 10, USC Section 1789 and co-facilitated by certified Chaplain Assistants and Volunteer Instructors. For multiple events conducted concurrently, instructor ratio will be 1 Chaplain, 1 Chaplain Assistant, and 1 Volunteer Instructor per 30 couples, 30 Families, and 60 Soldiers. Training will be conducted utilizing approved program curriculum as identified below and in Annex C. Additional relationship enhancing activities may be conducted at the discretion of unit ministry teams. Note: Copyrighted materials (workbooks, etc) cannot be reproduced without permission.

Event Standards Curriculum Funding Template Attendees

Strong Bonds Alpha

Programmed time:

4 hours Married Couples

- Active Military Life and Resiliency Skills - 5 Love Languages - Laugh Your Way

AC: $133.33 per Couple

$200 per Family

$66.67 per Soldier

DACH Funding: $2,000

15 Couples

10 Families

30 Soldiers Max attendance

Curriculum: 2-4 hours per session

Families - Active Military Families

Venue: Offsite or military facility

Singles Deployment

- Active Military Life and Resiliency Skills - PICK, How to avoid Falling for a JERK(ette) - Strong Bonds Pre-Deployment

Strong Bonds Bravo

Programmed time:


- Couples Communication I

- Marriage LINKS

AC:

$266.67 per Couple

$400 per Family $133.33 per Soldier


15 Couples

10 Families



Families

- Survival Skills for Healthy Families

Venue: Offsite or military facility

Singles Deployment

- 7 Habits of Successful Soldiers

- Families of Deployed Soldiers

Strong Bonds Charlie

Active Component

Programmed time:


- Couples Communication II

- PREP for Strong Bonds

- 8 Habits of a Successful Marriage

AC:

$500 per Couple

$750 per Family

$250 per Soldier


30 Couples

20 Families



Families

- 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families

Venue: Overnight offsite

Singles Deployment

- Got Your Back - Strong Bonds Reintegration

Strong Bonds Charlie

ARNG and USAR

Programmed time:


- All approved curriculum ARNG:

USAR:

State Per Diem Rates

$1000 per Couple

$1500 per Family

$1150 per Soldier

30 Couples

30 Families



Families - All approved curriculum

Venue: Overnight offsite

Singles - All approved curriculum

Deployment - All approved curriculum

Annex C - Strong Bonds Approved Program Curriculum

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Approved Strong Bonds Curriculum: The following curriculum will be used when conducting Strong Bonds training. Only one approved curriculum will be used per Strong Bonds training event. For programs requiring instructor certification training, at least one Unit Ministry Team member must be properly trained and certified prior to utilizing/presenting material.

Curriculum Course Modules Length Type Event Session

Strong Bonds for Married Couples

PREP For Strong Bonds Introduction to Strong Bonds 50 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Communication Danger Signs 75 minutes Charlie

Honey, Let’s Talk 85 minutes

Events, Issues, and Hidden Issues 40 minutes

Fun and Friendship 50 minutes

You, Me and Us 70 minutes

Stress and Relaxation 70 minutes

Problem Solving 50 minutes Strong Bonds Session II

Forgiveness 50 minutes Charlie

Supporting Each Other 50 minutes

The Sensual/Sexual Relationship 40 minutes

Sharing Hearts 75 minutes

Ground Rules 30 minutes

Commitment 80 minutes

Couples Communication I ThriveSphere Couples Inventory

The 7 Dimensions of a Collaborative Marriage

120 Minutes

20 minutes

Strong Bonds

Bravo

Session I

Choosing Communication Styles 100 minutes

Identifying Issues and Using Your Awareness Wheel

120 minutes

Applying the Listening Cycle 120 minutes Strong Bonds Session II

Mapping Issues 120 minutes Bravo

Couples Communication II Session I - The Skills Zone 90 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Session II – Managing My Anger 90 minutes Charlie

Session III – Responding to My Partner’s Anger 90 minutes

Session IV – Aligning Our Relationship 90 minutes


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Curriculum Course Modules Length Type Event Sessions


Eight Habits of a Successful Marriage

Habit 1 – Be Proactive 70 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Habit 2 – Begin With the End in Mind 50 minutes Charlie

Habit 3 – Put First Things First 60 minutes

Habit 4 – Think Win-Win 50 minutes

Habit 5 – Seek First to Understand Then to be Understood

80 minutes

Habit 6 - Synergize 50 minutes

Habit 7 – Sharpen the Saw 50 minutes

Habit 8 – Lift Yourself by Lifting Your Partner 50 minutes

Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage

Tale of Two Brains – Part I 72 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Tale of Two Brains – Part II 54 minutes Alpha

Number 1 Key to Incredible Sex 73 minutes

Flag Page 88 minutes Strong Bonds Session II

Divorce Proofing Skills Kit 75 minutes Alpha

How to Stay Married 38 minutes

Five Love Languages The Experience of Falling in Love 15 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Love as an Attitude 5 minutes Alpha

Love as an Emotional Need – The Five Emotional Love Languages

20 minutes

Group Discussion – The Five Love Languages

Group Paced

Marriage Lasting Intimacy through Nurturing, Knowledge and Skills (LINKS)

Relentlessly Pursuing Intimacy 60 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Respectfully Cultivating Trust 60 minutes Bravo

Reciprocally Meeting Needs 60 minutes

Resiliently Charting Your Course 60 minutes

Romantically Renewing Your Union 60 minutes


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Active Relationships:

Active Military Life and Resiliency Skills (AMLRS)

Module 2: Communication: Yours, Mine & Ours 40 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Module 5: Using My Brain: Keeping My Cool 30 minutes Alpha

Module 7: War Stress: Myth-busting PTS & mTBI 15 minutes

Module 4: On Time on Target: Perfecting Timing! 20 minutes

Module 8: “Underminers” Be Gone! 30 minutes

Teaching you how to Kiss My Ace! 15 minutes

Module 15: Money: Personalities & Team Value 30 minutes Strong Bonds Session II

Module 11: Anger: The Good, Bad and Better 45 minutes Alpha

Module 3 & 18- Honey I’m Home! Now what? 20 minutes

Module 21: Love, Romance & Sex – Really! 25 minutes

Module 24: Ideas for Closeness-Now & Forever 30 minutes

Module 20: Commitment & Fidelity: Future Proofing 20 minutes Strong Bonds Session III

Module 6: Why do these things set me off? 30 minutes Alpha

Module 13: Really? A Safe Way to Vent? 5 minutes

Module16: S.M.A.R.T.: The Art of Diplomacy 30 minutes

Module 17: Diplomacy & Negotiation Practice 50 minutes

Kissing Our Way through the Rocks 15 minutes

Module 1: Resilience & Readiness Revealed 20 minutes Strong Bonds Session IV

Module 23: Walking a Mile in Your Shoes 20 minutes Alpha

Module 10: More than Just the Blues 10 minutes

Module 12: Compassion & Forgiveness: Strength 20 minutes

Module 9: Aren’t YOU going Make ME Happy?

Module 14: I Got the P.O.W.E.R.: Anger Relief

Module 22: The Greatness of Marriage

Module 19: Predictors for a Great US

30 minutes

20 minutes

10 minutes

20 minutes


C-4


Strong Bonds for Families

Survival Skills for Healthy Families by Family Wellness

Parents in Healthy Military Families 120 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Children in Healthy Military Families 120 minutes Bravo

Adult Relationships in Healthy Families 120 minutes

Values in Healthy Military Families 120 minutes Strong Bonds Session II

Change in Healthy Military Families 120 minutes Bravo

Problem Solving in Healthy Military Families 120 minutes

Seven Habits of Highly Effective Army Families

Becoming an Agent of Change in your Family 50 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Developing a Family Mission Statement 50 minutes Charlie

Making Family a Priority in a Turbulent World 50 minutes

Moving from “Me” to “We” 60 minutes

Solving Family Problems Through Emphatic Communication

80 minutes

Building Family Unity Through Celebrating Differences

30 minutes

Receiving the Family Spirit Through Traditions 25 minutes


Active Military Families (AMF)

Listening and Talking People 30 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Guessing the Good About Others 30minutes Alpha

Letting the Air Out of My Balloon 30 minutes

Happy Thoughts and Happier Feelings 30 minutes

SMART Help to Ask Nicely 45 minutes Strong Bonds Session II

Planning What I Want 40 minutes Alpha

Things I Like About Me 35 minutes


C-5

Strong Bonds for Families of Deployed Soldiers

SB Deployment – Families of Deployed Soldiers

Separate version of modules available for -Spouses -Juniors (4-7 yrs) -Juniors (8-12 yrs) -Teens (13-18 yrs)

Module 1: We’re in This Together 60 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Module 2: Why Do I Feel This Way? 60 minutes Bravo

Module 3: Finding My Voice 60 minutes

Module 4: My Sources of Power 60 minutes

Module 5: Strength for the Journey 60 minutes

Module 6: We Are Family 60 minutes

Strong Bonds – Pre Deployment

SB PreDeployment Module 1: Introduction 30 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Module 2: Conflict 50 minutes Alpha

Module 3: Connection 50 minutes

Module 4: Concerns 50 minutes

Module 5: Commitment 50 minutes

Strong Bonds – Reintegration

SB Reintegration Module 1: Welcome 30 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Module 2: Change 60 minutes Charlie

Modules 3: Communication 60 minutes

Module 4: Anger 60 minutes

Module 5: Sex & Intimacy 60 minutes

Module 6: Guilt 60 minutes

Module 7: Closing 30 minutes

Strong Bonds for Singles

Premarital Interpersonal Choices and Knowledge (PICK) – How to Avoid Marrying a JERK(ette)

A Bird’s Eye View of a Growing Relationship 45 minutes Strong Bonds Session 1

You Can’t Marry Jethro Without Getting the Clampetts

45 minutes Alpha

The Ingredients for the Recipe of a Lasting Relationship

45 minutes

Why is it That Expectations Lead to Disappointments

45 minutes

Put the Horse Before the Cart 45 minutes


C-6



Active Military Life & Resiliency Skills (AMLRS)

Module 2: Sorting out Signals: Communication Styles

40 minutes Strong Bonds

Alpha Session I

Module 5: Brain Success: Cool Work 30 minutes

Module 14: The P.O.W.E.R. Tool: Anger Intelligence

20 minutes

Module 8: Live at the SB Apollo: Tagging “Underminers” through laughter & fun

30 minutes

Module 1: Resilient and Ready: How to’s 20 minutes Strong Bonds Session II

Module 11: Anger: The Good Bad and Better 20 minutes Alpha

Module 23: What’s it like to be him or her? 15 minutes

Module 19: Don’t Need a Crystal Ball: Predictors 20 minutes

Module 22: Should “I Do?” and What if “I Don’t?” 5 minutes

Module 24: Didn’t I tell you? Your Significant Role 20 minutes

Module 21: Love & Romance: What You Didn’t Know

20 minutes

Module 4: On Target: Timing & Intentional Content 15 minutes Strong Bonds Session III

M9- Happiness: It IS within my reach! 20 minutes Alpha

M12-The Strength of Compassion & Forgiveness 15 minutes

M16-Get S.M.A.R.T. about Getting Heard 30 minutes

M17-Diplomacy & Negotiation Practice 25 minutes

M20-Defining Commitment & Scary “F” Words 15 minutes

Module 15: Money, Where it Goes: When & Why 20 minutes Strong Bonds Session IV

Module 3: Why I Don’t Talk About Things 15 minutes Alpha

Module 7: War Stress: Myth-busting PTS and mTBI 15 minutes

Module 6: Why Do THESE Things Set Me Off? 30 minutes

Module 10: More than Just the Blues 10 minutes

Module 13: I Need to Get This Off My Chest but Not Run You Off!

10 minutes

Module 18: Strengths: Coming Back & Making a Fit! 20 minutes


C-7


Got Your Back Part I, Knowing What You’re Made Of 120 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Part II, Being A Great Buddy 120 minutes Charlie

Part III, Decide, Don’t Slide Into Love 120 minutes

7 Habits of Successful Soldiers

Habit 1 – Be Proactive 70 minutes Strong Bonds Session I

Habit 2 – Begin With the End in Mind 50 minutes Bravo

Habit 3 – Put First Things First 60 minutes

Habit 4 – Think Win-Win 50 minutes

Habit 5 – Seek First to Understand Then to be Understood

80 minutes

Habit 6 - Synergize 50 minutes

Habit 7 – Sharpen the Saw 50 minutes

Annex D - Strong Bonds Annual Training Request

D-1

Strong Bonds Annual Training Request – Active Component - Page 1

Annex D - Strong Bonds Annual Training Request

D-2

Strong Bonds Annual Training Request – Page 2

Annex E - Strong Bonds Program Manager/Administrator Appointment Memo

Strong Bonds Program Manager/Administrator Appointment Memo

E-1

OFFICE SYMBOL Date MEMORANDUM FOR SEE DISTRIBUTION SUBJECT: Duty Appointment – Strong Bonds Program Manager/Administrator 1. Effective 1 October 2013, the following individual(s) is/are appointed as the (Name of Unit/Command) Strong Bonds Program Manager.

a. Primary: Mr. John Doe [email protected] (910) XXX-XXXX DA Civilian Name of Unit/Command b. Alternate: SFC Jim Brown [email protected] (910) XXX-XXXX Chaplain Assistant Name of Unit/Command

2. Authority: DACH Strong Bonds Memorandum of Instruction and paragraph 16-6b, AR 165-1.

3. Purpose: To perform duties as required by above references including:

a. Advise subordinate commands on program standards and policy.

b. Review, approve and submit command’s annual Strong Bonds training execution plan and supplemental funding requests to component POCs.

c. Review and validate the command’s Strong Bonds execution plan each quarter.

d. Monitor Strong Bonds event execution rates and establish internal controls to ensure events are executed during the quarter that funding is allocated. Approve/adjust event dates (when justified) within the quarter via online event management tool.

e. ACOM/ASCC/DRUs SBPMs will monitor and establish internal controls to ensure After Action Reports are completed. Brigade, state, operational and functional command, training support command, and regional support command SBPMs will be responsible for submitting AARs online via the Strong Bonds website. AARs will be submitted within 14 days after the completion of each event for active component units. ARNG and USAR reports are due within 30 days after each event.

f. Conduct random quality assurance evaluations/site visits to Strong Bonds events to assess compliance with Chief of Chaplain MOI standards and other regulatory requirements. Provide summary of results to component POCs.

g. Approve/manage attendance of chaplains, chaplain assistants, and spouses/ volunteers to the Strong Bonds Instructor Training Course.

h. Market and promote Strong Bonds at community events, officer/NCO professional development training, family readiness group meetings, and other appropriate forums.

i. ACOM/ASCC/DRUs SBPMs will monitor/ update /grant access to the Strong Bonds website for brigade level Strong Bonds Program Managers. ARNG and USAR Component SBPMs will control access for their respective component.



Annex E - Strong Bonds Program Manager/Administrator Appointment Memo

Strong Bonds Program Manager/Administrator Appointment Memo

E-2

j. At the brigade, state, operational and functional command (OFC), training support command (TSC), and regional support command (RSC) levels – coordinate local contracting requirements in support of Strong Bonds events. Maintain program documents/records in office files.

4. Period: Until officially relieved or released from appointment, or upon transfer, termination, reassignment, retirement, or discharge.

5. Special Instructions:

a. Individual(s) appointed must register for access to the Strong Bonds website at www.strongbonds.org.

b. The Strong Bonds Instructor Training Course should be completed within 1 year of appointment.

c. Unit Mailing Address:

- Unit

- Street/Unit No.

- Installation, State, Zip

6. Point of contact is the undersigned at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Command Chaplain or Commander Rank, Branch Title DISTRIBUTION: 1 – Component Strong Bonds PM 1 – Commander 1 – Command Chaplain 1 – Unit 1 – Individual concerned


Annex F - Strong Bonds After Action Report

F-1

Strong Bonds After Action Report (Page 1 of 2)

Annex F - Strong Bonds After Action Report

F-2

Strong Bonds After Action Report (Page 2 of 2)

Annex G - Strong Bonds Support Services Authorization

G-1

TITLE 10 - ARMED FORCES SUBTITLE A – GENERAL MILITARY LAW PART II - PERSONNEL CHAPTER 88 - MILITARY FAMILY PROGRAMS AND MILITARY CHILD CARE SUBCHAPTER I - MILITARY FAMILY PROGRAMS

Section 1789. Chaplain-led programs: authorized support

(a) Authority.— The Secretary of a military department may provide support services described in subsection (b) to support chaplain-led programs to assist members of the armed forces on active duty and their immediate family members, and members of reserve components in an active status and their immediate family members, in building and maintaining a strong family structure.

(b) Authorized Support Services.— The support services referred to in subsection (a) are costs of transportation, food, lodging, child care, supplies, fees, and training materials for members of the armed forces and their family members while participating in programs referred to in that subsection, including participation at retreats and conferences.

(c) Immediate Family Members. — In this section, the term “immediate family members”, with respect to a member of the armed forces, means—

(1) the member’s spouse; and (2) any child (as defined in section 1072 (6) of this title) of the member who is described

in subparagraph (D) of section 1072 (2) of this title.

Paragraph 16-6e AR 165-1

(e) The Secretary of the Army hereby delegates their authority, as prescribed in 10 USC 1789, to provide support services to build and maintain a strong Family structure among active duty Soldiers and reserve Soldiers in an active status, and their Families, to commanders in the grade of colonel and above. This authority may be delegated to a commander in the grade of lieutenant colonel by the first general officer in the chain of command in situations where there is not an intermediate commander between the commanding general and the commanding lieutenant colonel.

Paragraph 16-6f AR 165-1

(f) Commanders may use APF at installation level and mission funds at unit level to provide the support services prescribed in 10 USC 1789 for the commander's program to build and maintain strong and ready Family structures.

Strong Bonds Support Services Authorization

http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode10/usc_sec_10_00001072----000-.html

http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode10/usc_sec_10_00001072----000-.html#6

http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode10/usc_sec_10_00001072----000-.html

http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode10/usc_sec_10_00001072----000-.html#2

Annex H - Strong Bonds Instructor Training Course – Annual Training Plan

H-1

Training Room Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Common Core

1600-1900 *Course

Registration & Orientation

0830 -0930 **Conducting a

5 Star Event

0830 -0930 **Strong Bonds Administration

(Part I)

0830 -0930 **Strong Bonds Administration

(Part II)

0830 -0930 *Website Overview

Track 1

0930-1730 PICK a Partner

(Day 1)

0930-1730 PICK a Partner

(Day 2)

0930-1730 Marriage LINKS

(Day 1)

0930-1730 Marriage LINKS

(Day 2)

0800-1600 SB Deployment

30 Participants (AC – 20 / ARNG – 6 / USAR – 4)

Track 2

0930-1730 Family Wellness

Training (Day 1)


Training (Day 2)


Training (Day 3)

0930-1730 7 Habits - Singles

(Day 1)

0800-1600 7 Habits - Singles

(Day 2)


Track 3

0930-1730 Active

Relationships (Day 1)

0930-1730 Active


0930-1730 Active


0930-1730 Laugh Your Way

(Day 1)

0800-1600 Laugh Your Way

(Day 2)


Track 4

0930-1730 7 Habits – Families

(Day 1)

0930-1730 7 Habits – Families

(Day 2)

0930-1730 Couples

Communication (Day 1)

0930-1730 Couples


0800-1600 Couples



Track 5

0930-1730 Got Your Back

(Day 1)

0930-1730 Got Your Back

(Day 2)

0930-1730 PREP

(Day 1)

0930-1730 PREP

(Day 2)

0800-1600 PREP

(Day 3)


Location Training Dates AC ARNG USAR Totals

Charlotte, NC 21-26 Oct 2012 130 30 20 180

Honolulu, HI 2-7 Dec 2012 95 20 10 125

Seattle, WA 2-8 Feb 2013 130 30 20 180

Annex I - Strong Bonds Training Assessment

I-1

Strong Bonds Training Assessment – Couples (Page 1 of 2)

Annex I - Strong Bonds Training Assessment

I-2

Strong Bonds Training Assessment – Couples (Page 2 of 2)

Annex J – Receipt of Contractor Services

J-1

Validation of Services Received – Strong Bonds Program

s encls donald l. rutherford 1. annex a: program admin/mgt chaplain (major general) usa 2 ... mgt...

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