14 FSS Welcomes Sheila Ayala as the New Director of Outdoor Recreation at CAFB!

Sheila [pronounced “shay-lah”] has a deep passion for outdoor activities and a strong commitment to creating exceptional recreational opportunities. She is confident that her innovative ideas and new energy will elevate ODR programming.

Originally from Puerto Rico, Sheila has an impressive track record in the government sector, where she has held various leadership roles. She began her journey as a Fitness Director with the Army, transitioned to the Navy, and now proudly joins the Air Force team. Throughout her career, she has sharpened her leadership and organizational expertise, and we’re excited to see her put these skills into action.

Sheila has ambitious plans to broaden and diversify the recreational programs for service members and their families. Some exciting new offerings she plans to implement include day and night trips to nearby locations, shopping excursions, Kidults programs, convenient delivery and pickup services, and afternoon paddling sessions on SAC Lake. Sheila aims to introduce popular games like Cricket, Pickleball, and Tennis to Venture 360, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Let’s Go Outside!
Sheila is excited to launch the “Let’s Go Outside” campaign, designed to motivate both children and adults to get up, get outdoors, and embrace an active lifestyle. This initiative offers a variety of activities to get everyone outdoors and active, from family-friendly nature hikes at Natural Bridge Park in Alabama to thrilling ATV rides, ziplining adventures, and ODR Pop-Up events right in your backyard! The campaign offers recreation opportunities that strengthen physical well-being, relieve stress, and foster meaningful connections with family and friends. Check out the full list of ODR activities and join us in the “Let’s Go Outside” movement!

What is R4R?
The Recharge for Resiliency (R4R) program is an Air Force initiative designed to enhance the well-being and morale of service members and their families by offering affordable, high-quality recreational opportunities. Active duty members, Reservists, Guard members, and their families can all take advantage of R4R’s discounted prices for outdoor adventures, fitness programs, and leisure activities, providing a chance to recharge mentally and physically. Most ODR programs have an R4R price to take advantage of. R4R  includes sub-programs like the Single Airman Program Initiative (SAPI) and RecOn, which cater to different groups, making it easier for the entire Air Force community to access these experiences.

Upcoming Events You Don’t Want to Miss!
6 November  – Pop-Up ODR

• Jump, bounce, and play with Outdoor Recreation from 1600 to 1800 at State Housing Playground. Enjoy bounce house inflatables and games for free!

9-11 November  – Rec-On ATV & Zip Lining

• Travel to the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, TN with ODR to zip line down the mountains and travel the rocky trails. They’ll depart at 0900 on 9 Nov. It’s $175 if you qualify for R4R, and $435 regular price. That includes transportation there and back, lodging, and all equipment and training needed for both ATV operation and zip lining.

23 November  – Holiday Bazaar

• Check out the Columbus Holiday Bazaar from 1100-1600 at the Commissary Field with vendors, holiday food, inflatable, and games! 

14 December – Alabama National Bridge Park Adventure

• Spend your Friday enjoying the breathtaking natural rock formations and waterfalls at  Alabama National Bridge Park! The adventure begins at 0700! The cost is $10 per adult, and 
• $5 per child 12 and under. Register by 12 December.