The Ultimate Guide To Fort Carson ACS: 7 Essential Programs Every Soldier And Family Needs To Know In 2025

As of December 22, 2025, the Army Community Service (ACS) at Fort Carson remains the foundational hub for non-combat support, resilience, and quality of life for all active-duty soldiers, retirees, and their families stationed at 'The Mountain Post.' This comprehensive network of resources is constantly updated to meet the evolving needs of the military community, offering critical programs ranging from emergency financial aid to crucial family advocacy and deployment support. Whether you are a newcomer to Colorado Springs or a seasoned member of the 4th Infantry Division, understanding the full scope of ACS services is the key to thriving, not just surviving, your assignment in El Paso County. The mission of Fort Carson ACS is simple yet vital: to empower and equip the entire military family with the tools and knowledge necessary to successfully navigate the unique challenges of Army life. Located conveniently in Building 1526, ACS is not just an office; it is a dedicated support system designed to foster community wellness, ensuring that every soldier and spouse has immediate access to reliable information and professional assistance. This in-depth guide breaks down the core functions and most critical programs that make Fort Carson ACS an indispensable resource for the entire installation.

Fort Carson Army Community Service (ACS) Profile and Contact Information

The Fort Carson Army Community Service (ACS) is a crucial component of the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (DFMWR) network, providing a wide array of support programs under the umbrella of the U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM).

• Official Name: Army Community Service (ACS)
• Installation: Fort Carson, Colorado ("The Mountain Post")
• Primary Location: Building 1526, 6303 Wetzel Ave, Fort Carson, CO 80913
• ACS Annex (Family Nurturing Center): 1481 Titus Blvd, BLDG 7492
• Primary Phone Number: (719) 526-4590 (Information, Referral & Follow-Up)
• Key Services: Information & Referral (I&R), Family Advocacy Program (FAP), Financial Readiness, New Parent Support Program (NPSP), Army Emergency Relief (AER), Relocation Assistance, and Army Volunteer Corps (AVC).
• Target Community: Active-duty soldiers, Reserve/National Guard members on active orders, military retirees, and their eligible family members.

The Financial Lifeline: Army Emergency Relief and Financial Readiness

Financial stability is a cornerstone of soldier readiness, and Fort Carson ACS offers two interconnected programs to ensure the community remains financially secure. These services are especially vital during major life events like Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves, deployments, or unexpected emergencies.

Army Emergency Relief (AER)

The Army Emergency Relief (AER) program is the Army's own non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to soldiers and their families in times of genuine need. AER assistance is primarily given in the form of interest-free loans or grants, which prevents soldiers from resorting to predatory lenders. The ACS office at Fort Carson is the primary point of contact for initiating an AER request. Common reasons for AER assistance include:

• Emergency travel due to a death or serious illness in the family.
• Rent, mortgage, or utility payments to prevent eviction or disconnection.
• Essential vehicle repair.
• Food, clothing, or essential travel funds during a financial crisis.

To speak directly with an AER representative at Fort Carson, the dedicated line is 719-526-4783.

Financial Readiness Program (FRP)

The Financial Readiness Program (FRP) focuses on proactive education and counseling to build long-term financial health. The FRP offers confidential, no-cost consultations with accredited financial counselors. This program is a critical component for soldiers undergoing mandatory financial training, but it is available to all eligible members of the Fort Carson community. Key services include:

• Budgeting and Debt Management: Creating personalized spending plans and developing strategies for debt reduction.
• Credit Counseling: Understanding credit reports, FICO scores, and improving creditworthiness.
• Consumer Affairs: Guidance on major purchases, contracts, and avoiding scams.
• Savings and Investment Education: Information on the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), retirement planning, and long-term wealth building.
• PCS Financial Planning: Preparing for the financial stress and costs associated with a military move.

Family Resilience and Soldier Transition Programs

The demands of military service often place significant stress on family units. Fort Carson ACS offers specialized programs designed to strengthen family bonds, support new parents, and ensure seamless transitions for those moving to or leaving the installation.

Family Advocacy Program (FAP)

The Family Advocacy Program (FAP) is one of the most critical and sensitive services offered by ACS. Its primary goal is the prevention, education, and intervention related to domestic violence, child abuse, and neglect within the military community. FAP provides counseling, support groups, and resources to promote healthy relationships and a safe home environment. All services are confidential, and FAP is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all family members.

New Parent Support Program (NPSP)

The New Parent Support Program (NPSP) is a voluntary, free service for military families who are expecting a child or have children up to three years old. NPSP provides home visits, parenting classes, and support groups led by licensed clinical social workers or registered nurses. This program is instrumental in helping new military parents adjust to the unique challenges of raising children while navigating the military lifestyle, offering guidance on child development, stress management, and bonding.

Relocation Assistance Program (RAP)

Moving, or PCSing, is a constant reality for military families. The Relocation Assistance Program (RAP) at Fort Carson ACS is designed to mitigate the stress of this process. RAP offers a variety of services to both inbound and outbound personnel:

• Welcome Packets and Information: Newcomers can stop in at Building 1526 to pick up welcome packets, maps, and local area information about Colorado Springs and El Paso County.
• Sponsorship Training: Training for unit sponsors to ensure they are equipped to effectively assist incoming soldiers and families.
• Lending Closet: Provides temporary household items (pots, pans, dishes, etc.) to families waiting for their household goods (HHG) to arrive or be shipped out.
• Smooth Move Workshops: Comprehensive workshops covering entitlements, planning, and resources for a successful PCS.

Community Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities

ACS is deeply involved in community building and relies heavily on the dedication of military spouses and community members. The Army Volunteer Corps (AVC) program is the central coordination point for all volunteer activities on the installation.

Army Volunteer Corps (AVC)

The AVC works to recruit, train, and recognize volunteers across Fort Carson. Volunteering offers military spouses and family members an excellent opportunity to gain marketable skills, build their professional networks, and contribute meaningfully to the community. The AVC office maintains a database of available volunteer positions within ACS, MWR, and other installation units. This program is essential for building a sense of belonging and providing career-enhancing experience for those who frequently move due to their spouse's service.

Information, Referral & Follow-Up (I&R)

The Information, Referral & Follow-Up (I&R) program is the front door to all ACS services. When you call the main ACS number (719-526-4590), you are connecting with I&R specialists who are trained to assess your needs and connect you with the appropriate ACS program, another Fort Carson resource, or a vetted external community resource. They ensure that no request for help goes unanswered and that families receive the necessary follow-up to confirm their needs were met.

Staying Current with Fort Carson ACS

To ensure you are always getting the most current information, Fort Carson ACS and DFMWR utilize several modern communication channels. The "Pass It On" Community Information Newsletter is a key resource for current news and events. Furthermore, the "Carson on My Army Post App" is a valuable tool for accessing services and updates on the go. By actively engaging with these platforms, military families can stay informed about critical changes, new programs, and community events, making their experience at Fort Carson as smooth and supportive as possible. The comprehensive and dedicated staff at ACS Building 1526 stand ready to assist every member of the Mountain Post community with professionalism and care.

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