Volunteer Spotlight: USO Singapore

By Kristen Loflin

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The USO proudly supported more than 40 percent of service members in 2024 through programs and services at one of our 250 plus centers or through expeditionary efforts and outreach operations around the world. Though the organization employs over 600 passionate individuals, the expansive reach of the USO cannot happen without the vital network of our volunteers.

In the USO Indo-Pacific region, our volunteer force can be found in Alaska to Korea. They range from active and retired military personnel to dependents and more– both human and canine! No matter how long they have been a part of the USO family, every single volunteer plays a significant role in mission delivery.

Join us all week long as we share spotlights of some of the men and women who are the true backbone and heartbeat of the USO Indo-Pacific region.

USO Singapore

Without a current physical location or staff, volunteers at USO Singapore truly make the magic happen. From attending Newcomer brief’s to hosting various programs, this team is responsible for supporting the U.S. service members and their families stationed or deployed to U.S. Naval Forces Japan Singapore. Meet a few of these passionate individuals:

Courtney McCurry

After receiving the USO’s support for years, Courtney wanted to bring the USO to fellow military families in Singapore. | Photo credit Courtesy Photo

Location: USO Singapore

Length of service: Volunteering since October 2023

What inspired you to volunteer?

Having the USO in Singapore is relatively new. I wanted to volunteer to help bring the USO to the many military members and their families stationed here. I feel that my family and I have received so much support from the USO throughout my spouse’s career, and I love being able give back to the organization by volunteering and paying it forward to other military members and their families.

What is your favorite part about being a volunteer?

Hands down my favorite part is interacting with service members and their families. I love having conversations with them and connecting with them as individuals.

Is there a particular favorite moment or memory from volunteering?

The first time we held a coffee connections event in Singapore there was a wonderful group of spouses that attended. The group spent way more time than expected simply meeting each other, connecting and learning from each other. When everyone walked away excited, not only about what we had discussed but also about the next event, that is when I knew the USO was in the exact right place. I was so excited to be a part of it!

Kristen Charpentier

Kristen is grateful to be a big part of bringing the USO to Singapore. | Photo credit Courtesy Photo

Location: USO Singapore

Length of service: Volunteering since December 2023

What inspired you to volunteer?

The USO and its services were badly needed in our community, especially for single sailors, visiting military and those who are here TDY. I was so happy to help get the USO up and running here and serve our community!

What is your favorite part about being a volunteer?

I love knowing that I get to contribute to something that helps make a service member’s day a little brighter!

Is there a particular favorite moment or memory from volunteering?

Participating in the pizza drop-ins for the installation commands is my favorite USO activity. It’s such a small way to say thank you to those who serve, but it always produces the biggest smiles!

Volunteer Today!

Courtney and Kristen have been vital to the USO’s expansion into a new area. Help the organization expand its support by becoming part of the community! If you are interested in welcoming guests, packing and delivering snack bags, helping with various programs or more in support of those sacrificing for our country, becoming a USO volunteer may be perfect for you! Learn how you can begin your journey here.

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