Mental Health Panel
Findings from the 1976 AAFSW survey indicated a need for the State Department to review the quality of medical care for Foreign Service families, especially counseling for mental health issues. […]
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Family Liaison Office Opens
Perhaps the most significant recommendation of AAFSW’s FORUM report was to establish the Family Liaison Office (FLO). The AAFSW engaged in direct dialogue with Secretary of State Cyrus Vance on
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Overseas Briefing Center Opens
Today, we all know what a vital role the OBC plays in the life of the Foreign Service community. Its training programs are extremely varied, and the in-depth information it
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Report on the Concerns of Foreign Service Spouses and Families
Following the establishment of the 1976 FORUM and survey of Foreign Service Women, the AAFSW wrote the Report on the Concerns of Foreign Service Spouses and Families. This report compiled
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FORUM and Survey
In 1976, AAFSW established the FORUM, an AAFSW “think tank” which has had an enormous effect on the Foreign Service thanks to the reports and recommendations it has produced and
Education and Counseling Center
Up to the 1970s, no central counseling center existed where parents and children worldwide could turn for continuity of concern, support, assessment and planning, regardless of their post of assignment.
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1972 Directive
The William Macomber “1972 Directive” opened the door to significant change. Two paragraphs, #1 and #5, were particularly influential. #1 stated that since wives were not USG employees, they could
Showcase of American Women Around the World Exhibit
Secretary of State Dean Rusk opened this exhibit, created by AAFSW, in the Department of State Exhibit Hall on October 16, 1963. The Secretary stated “In no job is the
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First Book Fair
Following the success of the Christmas Bazaar in 1960, AAFSW began a new tradition – the annual Book Fair, which raises money for scholarships. During just two months, AAFSW volunteers
Training for Spouses
Prior to 1960, training at FSI for Foreign Service wives was provided on a “space available” basis. There was also a seminar for wives which focused heavily on protocol. However,
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