DVIDS – News – Cannon Child & Youth Programs team receives Department of Defense certification

CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, NEW MEXICO — The Children’s and Youth Programs team at Cannon Air Force Base received a five-star Department of Defense certification after demonstrating excellent performance during the senior headquarters’ annual unannounced inspection here this year.

CYP Cannon AFB specialists help The Steadfast Line prepare for mission by providing center-based and in-home child care for military dependent children ages two weeks to 18 years, allowing Airmen to focus on the mission.

The Youth Center offers after-school and summer programs and outdoor recreation for youth ages 9 to 18. The paid after-school program includes structured activities such as cooking, life skills classes, day trips, crafts, competitions and movie nights. . Teens can pursue a variety of careers and earn college scholarships through the Youth Employment Skills Program.

The Unannounced Senior Headquarters Inspection is an annual review designed to ensure that CYP programs are consistently in compliance with operating guidelines. DoD inspectors may appear unannounced to conduct observations, review files, and review training records to ensure that CYP operations comply with official guidelines when providing assistance.

“When it comes to caring for children, you have to be responsible for following protocol,” said Casey Blackmon, flight director for children and youth programs. “A person’s child is his whole world. People can rest easy knowing that we adhere to the highest standards and policies, maintaining a five-star certification.”

The inspections cover areas around the base, including the Cannon and Chavez AFB child development centers, family child care programs, school age child care programs, youth programs and school liaison programs. If certification requirements are not met, programs provided by the CYP team may be closed until recertification can be achieved.

“Having child care close to home gives participants the comfort of knowing their children are safe and rules are being followed,” Blackmon said. “This is how we maintain a higher certification rating than 75% of other child care facilities.”

Maintaining current training and file management allows Cannon AFB CYP programs to operate year-round with 5-star certification, following DoD policy and adhering to the highest standards.

“We are following Air Force guidelines and ensuring that our training and file management are up to date so that we are prepared for inspections that could occur at any time,” Blackmon said.

By adhering to guiding principles and providing high-quality care, the Cannon AFB CYP team plays a critical role in The Steadfast Line’s mission to bring unconventional air power to the joint force worldwide, providing peace of mind to the 27th Air Commando SOW while they meet the nation’s requirements. .

For more information about Cannon AFB’s CYP and other child development programs, visit: https://cannonforce.com/youth-center/.