USAG Stuttgart Directorate of Family & MWR – Army Community Service (ACS) Relocation Readiness Program
Relocating to a new duty location, whether it be in the States or in a foreign country, can seem like a daunting task. However, Army Community Services (ACS) is here to make your transition from one location to the next as smooth as possible. Our Relocation Readiness Program (RRP) covers a variety of services to assist you during the relocation process and after your arrival. Visit www.militaryonesource.mil for additional information about military installations and to create a personalized checklist for the various tasks associated with your PCS process.
A successful sponsorship experience can make all the difference for a smooth transition. Sponsors are a critical link for sharing important information before, during and after a PCS move. Properly trained sponsors are the key to a successful transition. ACS presents comprehensive training to arm sponsors and spouse sponsors with the tools, information and support they need to be successful.
Another important service provided by the RRP is the Lending Closet which provides basic household goods for people who have already shipped their household goods to their next duty location or are waiting to receive their shipment in Stuttgart. These goods include basic kitchenware for cooking and eating as well as many 220 volt electric appliances to make life easier for those still waiting for their household goods to arrive. By providing a copy of your PCS orders, items may be borrowed for up to 60 days.
Sprechen Sie Deutsch? ACS also offers two free language classes. The German Immersion class is offered weekly. The class teaches the fundamentals of the German language as well as cultural and historical aspects of Germany.
English as a Second Language (ESL) is for those whose native language is not English. This interactive class offers an immersion into the American culture while also learning the basics of English language and grammar. This class provides an opportunity to connect with individuals from across the globe.
ACS offers basic German translation services for unofficial translations of utility bills, phone bills, internet service bills, auto insurance, price quotes, emails and for scheduling appointments on the German economy. To avoid issues associated with translations, we recommend attending the Host Nation Orientation which also addresses local service contracts and set up and cancellation guidelines of German contracts.
The Host Nation Orientation is designed to familiarize newcomers with the daily aspects of living in Germany, to include transportation, restaurant etiquette, conversions, “Top ten ways not to make your German neighbors mad,” and more.
In addition to the HNO class, ACS provides a Host Nation Tour of downtown Stuttgart. This regularly-offered tour starts from a different installation each time and offers attendees the opportunity to learn about and use the German public transit system, visit Stuttgart landmarks (such as the New/Old Castles, Königstrasse, Market Hall, and City Hall), and purchase lunch in a German restaurant.
The training and tour are open to all members of the community on a space available basis. Registration is required, so contact ACS to receive the latest schedule and reserve your seat.
ACS is committed to making your relocation process as smooth as possible. To learn more about ACS services and programs please visit https://stuttgart.armymwr.com or stop by building 2915, 2nd Floor, on Panzer Kaserne.
If you’d like to schedule an appointment, call the ACS Information and Referral Desk at DSN 314-596-3362 or commercial +49 (0)9641-70-596-3362.