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Above and beyond the intrinsic benefits we all receive by
volunteering our time and talents, Auxiliarists are privileged to receive
many other benefits not available to other volunteer organizations. Both the
Coast Guard and the National Board, Inc. provide these benefits as an
enhancement to our volunteer service. The following is a listing of some of
the benefits available to members:
Coast Guard Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation (MWR)
As Coast Guard Auxiliary, you are eligible for benefits
provided through the Coast Guard Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation (MWR).
The Coast Guard MWR program provides a wide array of programs and services to
meet the mission readiness and retention needs of our members. Facilities and
programs range from fitness centers, gymnasiums, and picnic areas, to movie
theaters, travel services, bowling centers, and food and beverage operations.
The facilities available and services offered will vary at each Coast Guard
installation. To find out what is available through your MWR program, visit www.uscg.mil/mwr .
Coast Guard Federal Credit Union
The Coast Guard Credit Union provides all the services of a bank, but returns
profits to the members instead of the stockholders. From savings and checking
accounts to home equity lines of credit, the Credit Unit has a lot to offer.
Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
Mutual Assistance provides an emergency fund that can provide fast financial
relief when a member faces an unexpected or "impossible" financial
burden that would cause personal hardship if no assistance were provided. Auxiliarists
may apply for such a loan and are considered as "Sponsor Members"
under the program. If approved, the emergency loan is interest free.
Coast Guard Work-Life Programs
Auxiliarists can take advantage of certain Coast Guard Work-life Programs
such as:
·
Family
·
Wellness
·
Dependent
Resources
·
Employee
Assistance
·
Relocation
Assistance
Insurance
A variety of insurance programs benefit the Auxiliarist operating under Coast
Guard orders. This includes medical, hospitalization, disability and death
benefits should an accident occur in the performance of your duty. If
your boat, aircraft or other authorized Auxiliary facility is damaged or
destroyed while legitimately engaged in Auxiliary operations, coverage for
repairs or replacement would be provided. Government liability coverage
protects the Auxiliarist from third party claims made as a result of actions
that occur when the Auxiliarist is performing authorized missions and has
been properly assigned to duty. In order to maintain this coverage, all
incidents and accidents must be reported to your issuing authority for the
mission. As a caution, there must be strict adherence with the terms of all
Coast Guard regulations and orders, as well as the Auxiliary Manual or the
claim will be denied.
Exchange Privileges
Auxiliarists in uniform, with proper identification, can purchase anything
sold in the Coast Guard Exchange Stores except liquor and cigarettes.
Dependents may accompany Auxiliarists to the Exchange, but may not make
individual purchases. Members of the Auxiliary are also welcome at Department
of Defense Exchanges, but only uniform items or accessories may be purchased.
Publications
Members receive the Auxiliary National publication, The Navigator, their own
District publication, and other bulletins to keep abreast of Coast Guard,
Auxiliary and general boating information.
Uniforms and Awards
The pride of wearing the Auxiliary uniform is amplified by awards and
advancement, with ample opportunities to receive recognition by completing
Auxiliary training courses and participating in programs authorized by your
Flotilla leadership.
Tax Deductions
Uniforms, their cleaning and maintenance, and reasonable out of pocket
expenses incurred in the performance of your duties are
"considered" contributions for tax purposes. The foregoing is not
intended to be advice on deductibility. Your should consult your professional
tax advisor.
Fellowship
One of the Auxiliary's trademarks is good old-fashioned hospitality. Friends,
neighbors and interested members of the public are always welcome to attend
one of our flotilla meetings. In addition, you will find a special
camaraderie among Auxiliarists that is hard to beat. Along with our missions
we find time to relax and have fun at Auxiliary outings, training sessions,
patrols, VSCs, classes, and conferences. Auxiliarists make lasting,
meaningful friendships.
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