CAMP ZAMA, Japan — By shopping Army & Air Force Exchange stores in 2020, Camp Zama service members and families generated $263,165 for the installation’s Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs.

Camp Zama Exchange General Manager Eileen Al-Sayed and Assistant Manager Nick Cucinello joined Col. Thomas R. Matelski, United States Army Garrison Japan’s commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Justin Turner, USAG Japan’s senior enlisted advisor, to celebrate the dividends in a presentation on June 24.

One hundred percent of Exchange earnings are reinvested in the military community through quality-of-life support like MWR programs or improving the customer shopping experience.

“The Exchange is an invaluable resource for the Camp Zama community,” FMWR Director Rick Bosch said. “Through these dividends, a multitude of MWR programs can be extended to Soldiers and families and have an immediate positive impact on the resiliency of the community.”

According to Bosch, the Camp Zama dividend funds will support almost every MWR area, including Unit Sports, Commander’s Cup competitions, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, fitness centers, libraries and more.

The Exchange contribution will also support resources for family members—such as finance and employment services, child and youth services, childcare fee assistance and youth sports programs. Outreach programs such as Army Community Services, and recreational activities including concerts, bowling alleys, golf courses, camping sites and more will also be supported.

In 2020, the Exchange gave back $153 million to the military worldwide, with the U.S. Army receiving $89 million.

“Every year, the Exchange supports our service members by giving back to the community,” Cucinello said. “It’s a privilege to serve our heroes each and every day.”

Photo Caption: On June 24, Camp Zama Army & Air Force Exchange Service General Manager Eileen Al-Sayed and Assistant Manager Nick Cucinello joined Col. Thomas Matelski, United States Army Garrison Japan’s commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Justin Turner, USAG Japan’s senior enlisted advisor, to celebrate the $263,165 Exchange shoppers generated for Camp Zama MWR programs. The funds will support almost every area of MWR, including Unit Sports, Commander’s Cup competitions, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, family and child resources, fitness centers, libraries, recreational activities and more.