Giving a bit of time to those in need before it runs out

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nathan Maysonet
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  For civilian employees of the government who find themselves in need of a little extra time when dealing with an accident or illness, there is help to be had. The Voluntary Leave Transfer Program offers a chance for interested people to donate their paid leave to help others in short supply.

The VLTP allows recipients, who have little to no paid leave, receive an income while recovering from a medical emergency helping them to limit the financial blow common to such situations.

"The program offers some relief to those dealing with the things you don't see coming," said Jill Logston, 47th Force Support Squadron employee relations specialist.

On an average year, a dozen of Laughlin's own apply for assistance through the program, Logston said. Hundreds of hours are contributed from people across the base with a constant supply of individuals willing to donate a little time.

Even now, seven civilian employees from Laughlin are actively receiving donations. Lorrin Malcom, 47th Mission Support Group resource advisor, is the latest in asking for support after being seriously injured when he was in an accident.

"A lot of that day and the day after are gone and it's only by the grace of God that I'm alive," said Malcom. "We would be really hurting right now without the help since my family is in Utah and I'm here."

Uncertain how long recovery will be and with further injuries being found with each visit to the doctors, Malcom doesn't know how long he will be out of work, he said. For a man who prides himself on his charity, not being able to work and having others carry his load is difficult to bear.

"It drives me bananas not being able to do something, but right now my family doesn't have a lot of income and the program is keeping us above water," Malcom said.

When someone requests help, an account is made for them by the civilian pay office, where paid leave donations are received and forwarded to the recipients account. When the emergency has passed a supervisor notifies the office and the account is closed with remaining donated leave pooled together and divided amongst all those who donated to that person, Logston said.

"I couldn't even put my shirt on without help," Malcom said. "Having a program where people are willing to donate and bring me to my family through the hardest part of my recovery, there aren't enough words to give thanks to show my family's appreciation."

The program is open to all agencies throughout the Department of Defense and if all donations at Laughlin are exhausted, aid can be sought from other bases and agencies.

"You never know when it might be you in need," Logston said. "It's good to know you can help your fellow wingmen."

For more information about the VLTP and how to donate, contact the civilian personnel office at 298-5806.