Mission Monday: DAF Child and Youth Programs

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  • AFIMSC Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas – It’s Mission Monday! This week, we highlight Mona Hamilton with the Air Force Services Center. She supports the center as the branch chief for the Department of the Air Force Child and Youth Programs, Support and Professional Development branch.

Mona and her team enhance the lives of military children, youth, and teens through a diverse portfolio of programs and initiatives.

"My family has a military background, so the culture of service was something my husband and I grew up with," Hamilton said. "Having the opportunity to combine my passion for child and youth programs with serving military families was a dream job."

We asked Mona to tell us more about her work supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their families. 

Briefly tell us why you joined civil service
I was drawn to civil service by the opportunity to combine my passion for child and youth programs with my desire to serve military families. 

What do you love about your job?
I love working with the incredible teams in the field, supporting career growth, and fostering innovation in programming. Collaborating with outstanding partners like the Boys and Girls Clubs of America is also a highlight. 

When it comes to your job, what keeps you motivated?
Making a positive impact on the field and working with the dedicated team at AFSVC/CYP keeps me motivated. Their passion and expertise are truly inspiring.

How do you and your team contribute to Warfighter lethality and readiness?
Child and Youth Programs are mission enablers. Quality, safe, and engaging programs directly impact the future by helping children and youth thrive.  Our programs ensure Airmen and Guardians can focus on the mission knowing their families are well-cared for.

Describe a project/event you and your team worked on recently that gave you a great sense of accomplishment:
The Community of Practice for DAF Youth Directors has been a very rewarding initiative. This program brings together youth development professionals to share best practices, inspire innovation, and enhance the impact of our youth programs.

How does what you do support the warfighter and DAF Installations?
Our work directly supports strengthening Airmen, Guardians, and families, and pursuing organizational excellence. We provide families with the security of knowing their children are supported by a community of caring professionals. We strive for excellence in our programs, ensuring they are truly outstanding.

I power the world’s greatest Air Force by…
…being a partner with parents, leaders, and communities to build the best possible programs for children and youth, so adults can focus on the military mission knowing their families are valued and cared for.