ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
The idea of working seven days a week and sometimes six-hour work days for no monetary gain may seem inconceivable to some, but since 2002, that is just what Mandy Lepore, Airman's Attic manager and wife of Staff Sgt. John Lepore, 316th Security Forces Squadron combat arms instructor, does day in and day out as a volunteer at the Airman's Attic.
In May 2008, she became the volunteer manager; with this new title, her responsibilities increased - as did her hours - in an effort to provide Team Andrews with a quality, shop-like environment for Andrews members who needed a place to find varied items - from light bulbs to sofas to clothes.
"I volunteer at the Andrews Airman's Attic because I know from first-hand experience how difficult it is to bring up children on a fixed salary," Ms. Lepore said. "I remember how much the Airman's Attic helped us when we first moved here from England, and it meant a lot to us."
Since she became a military wife in July 2000, Ms. Lepore has made it her goal to help others in the extended military family and community.
"Our aim is to help all the troops we can," Ms. Lepore said. "I could not even make a guess how many people pass my doors in a month - we have the regulars and the new families who have just moved to Andrews and are looking for a bit of help to make life a little easier. Our arms are open to all you guys who need us."
Sometimes those in need are the smallest members of the Team Andrews family.
"I have a troop that is pregnant and had nothing for her baby," Ms. Lepore explained. "Through the Airman's Attic we were able to give her a free pack and play, bottles, diapers, bibs, wipes, onesies, shampoos, clothing and the baby's first Bible. We were also able to give her all the essentials that she needed for the baby."
The Airman's Attic also comes in handy during the holiday season for those Airmen with a limited budget.
"Just before Christmas a lady came in who was pregnant and had just lost her job. She came in for toys for her little boy. When we started chatting, she said he was only 2 and that he didn't know that toys came in boxes, so she was wrapping them for Christmas. After Christmas, I got a card from the boy saying, 'thank you.'"
Ms. Lepore's efforts were recently recognized at the Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony, where she was awarded the 2008 Exceptional Volunteer Award and the 316 SFS Outstanding Volunteer Award.
Donations and volunteers are always welcome at the Airman's Attic and free childcare for volunteers is available through the Air Force Aid Society.
The Airman's Attic is open to Active Duty military members and their spouses, E-5 and below, with an ID card, Tuesdays and Fridays from noon to 4 p.m. and the second Saturday of the month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information on the Airman's Attic, call
301-981-9655.