The Joint Base Lewis-McChord Camp Lewis Center's USO Coffee Connections' is a connection point for active duty military spouses.

"Whether that be through conversation, crafts or community outings, the goal is for spouses to create new friends while they explore the community," began David Dutcher, the center's manager.

"The main purpose of Coffee Connections is for spouses to connect."

Formed in 2017, Coffee Connections is currently hosted at 200 on-installation USO Centers around the world. The USO Camp Lewis Center on JBLM has hosted monthly events since 2019.

"We meet from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on the third Wednesday each month," said Dutcher, "and we are located inside the ACU Credit Union building located at the corner of Pendleton and 12th Street on JBLM Lewis Main.

Dutcher added that 10 to 14 spouses usually attend, that there is capacity for many more to attend, and that most of the participants are female, but that male spouses are welcome.

"I think Coffee Connections is a great way to meet other military spouses on the installation that you might not otherwise, in an intimate setting that encourages connection and creativity," commented Dr. Jae Rin Park, a frequent participant. Her husband, Col. Kent Park, is JBLM's garrison commander.

"The monthly meetings give me a chance to build relationships with other military spouses and volunteers, exchange vital information for living on the base as a military spouse, and learn new crafts or skills."

Each month there is a program that is designed to foster creativity and help spouses quickly form new friendships. There is also a seasonal craft project, trivia games or a visit from guest personalities.

"We have brought in several local artists for painting classes on various media such as canvas and rocks," explained Dutcher, "and we have featured both civilian and military chefs to host cooking demonstrations that have been extremely popular."

He also pointed out that every year a local automobile mechanic comes in to explain common automobile repairs, the meaning of various car sounds and how to check fluids and tire pressures.

"Now our focus will be on ‘Home for the Holidays' craft ideas," continued Dutcher.

Specifically, the Camp Lewis Center has plans for a Halloween Luminaries project (October), a presentation on how to create Charcuteries boards for holiday parties (November), and door wreathes and fancy bows for presents (December).

"I can hear the laughter and enjoyment in the voices of the spouses when they are here," concluded Dutcher. "And I frequently hear things like: ‘Oh, you live just down the street from me, let's go to lunch next week.'"

For more information, visit https://northwest.uso.org/events. Walk-ins are always welcome, however, please consider registering online to attend so the center knows how many craft kits will be needed.