From Niagara to Dobbins: New SARC prepares for transition Published March 20, 2013 By Senior Airman Chelsea Smith 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- On the heels of the retirement of previous Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Janine Bemis, Dobbins Air Reserve Base welcomes Brande Newsome from the 914th Airlift Wing at Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, scheduled to assume the role here Sept. 10. Newsome brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position as both a traditional Reservist and civil servant. She has held roles with the 914th Aeromedical Staging Squadron as a social worker and SARC, beginning her tenure as an alternate SARC in 2005, and then moving into a full-time role in July 2009. In preparation for the transition to Dobbins ARB, Newsome said she has met with Bemis and staff to customize her daily routine and learn the community support systems available to members. As a trained SARC, she also attends annual refresher workshops to keep her skill sets current. Although maintaining the same role, Newsome said she's equipped to handle the challenges that may occur during the migration from Niagara ARS to Dobbins ARB. "One challenge will be building the trust and rapport needed for members at all levels within the organization to feel comfortable walking through my door to ask for assistance," said Newsome. "With more than 16 years at Niagara, I've had time to build the relationships needed to serve in a behavioral health support role, so now the challenge will be to get to that same place at Dobbins." For a number of years, Newsome said she set her sights on Dobbins ARB since her family's relocation to the Atlanta area. Albeit the differences in atmosphere, Newsome said she believes the transition will be a good fit. "The cultures of the bases are different," said Newsome. "The basics of the job will be the same, however, the way I operate will adjust to meet the needs of the population at Dobbins." Newsome said she plans to ensure the continued operations of the SARC office and maintain an open door access and referral presence here. "I am looking forward to joining the team," said Newsome. "I like the idea of a learning culture where people gain insight from me and I am always open to learn from others." Upon assuming her post, Newsome may be reached at 678-655-4031 in building 828, Room 1415. Members needing immediate assistance may reach the Department of Defense Safe Hotline at 877-995-5247 or Military One Source at 1-800-342-9647 or www.MilitaryOneSource.com.
