Spotlight!
USO Okinawa Staff Spotlight - Meet Kelly!
USO Okinawa
May 27, 2025
(USO Okinawa)
Name: Kelly Avocey
Position/Title: Center Operations Coordinator
Time worked at USO: 7 months
Center/Office location: USO Kadena
Kelly is originally from Cameroon and has a deep love for being around people and finding quiet, thoughtful ways to make a difference. She believes that even the smallest gestures can create a meaningful impact. Her travels across several countries have not only broadened her perspective but also highlighted her natural ability to adapt to different cultures with ease.
In her free time, Kelly enjoys reading, meditating, and practicing archery—though her bow and arrows didn’t quite make the PCS to Okinawa. She hopes to return to the sport someday. She values calm moments, meaningful conversations, and engaging in work that feels purposeful. A lifelong learner, Kelly is always observing, always growing, and continually seeking new ways to develop both personally and professionally.
Why do you love working at the USO?
Working for the USO is more than just a job—it is a calling that fills my days with purpose. I love being part of an organization that supports service members and their families in such meaningful ways. Every event, every smile, every small act of appreciation reminds me that we are making a real difference in people’s lives. It is incredibly rewarding to be part of a team that lives out the values of service and gratitude every single day.
What is your favorite memory of working at the USO?
One of my favorite memories is from one of our Monthly Birthday Celebrations. A couple of months ago, a little girl came to our center with her mother—it happened to be her actual birthday that day. She was all dressed up and glowing with happiness. We were serving cupcakes, and she was joined by another little girl and her mother. The two families celebrated together right there in the center. The birthday girl was twirling around, full of joy, taking pictures, and asking her mom to send them to her dad, who was deployed. That moment was so simple, but incredibly meaningful. It reminded me exactly why I love my job and why I chose to be part of the USO. We get to create joyful, heartfelt moments like that for our military families, even when their loved ones can’t be there in person.
FEATURED PROGRAM:
Every month, USO Kadena celebrates the service members and family members who are making another trip around the sun. Our Monthly Birthday Celebration is a simple but joyful way to recognize those with birthdays that month. The event takes place on the last Monday of each month, or on Tuesday if Monday is a federal holiday. Guests can stop by to enjoy sweet treats and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. No RSVP is needed—just bring your smile and let us celebrate YOU!