LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
The Joint Base Langley-Eustis Company Grade Officer Council sponsored the first Air Force Assistance Fund 5k and 10k race March 15.
There were 52 participants from across base who ran, raising $1,180 for the charity.
"No unit was unrepresented out here this morning," said 1st Lt. Ashley Scott, JBLE CGOC community service chair. "Officers, enlisted members and civilians came out from the 633rd Air Base Wing, Air Combat Command and other tenant units here. It was great seeing the JBLE team come together like this."
This is the first year that JBLE's council directly participated in a fundraiser.
"CGOC usually does Angel Tree every year as our main philanthropy," said Scott. "But we wanted to reach out to another charity that CGOs knew would have a direct impact and give back to their Airmen who give 100 percent day-in and day-out."
With spring just around the corner, the 30-degree winter air discouraged many people from coming out.
"We started setting up around 5:30 a.m. and let our participants know to dress appropriately, but it didn't do the temperature justice until you really got out here," Scott said. "I was ecstatic so many people showed up, regardless of the cold."
Many people have their own reasons for supporting AFAF; some because they received assistance in the past and others because they want to help their own.
"I volunteer with several different organizations and I always look for something that supports the troops," said Scott. "I love that this charity sends the message that it's great service to take care of your own."
Other opportunities to raise money for the AFAF run through March 29.
"Joint Base Langley-Eustis supported a donut fundraiser and a 5k/10k race, in addition to collecting unit donations," said 2nd Lt. Francisco Guzman, JBLE AFAF installation project officer. "As of March 15, we have raised more than half of our goal of $170,602."
Contributions to the AFAF help lend support to active duty and retired Airmen and their families. Funds donated to the AFAF go to four different organizations; the Air Force Enlisted Village, the Air Force Village, the Air Force Aid Society and the LeMay Foundation.
Those interested in donating should contact their unit representative before the spring fundraising session closes.