LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
The Combined Federal Campaign kicked off Sept. 23, 2011, with a 5k run to raise awareness about the many charities involved.
Col. Korvin Auch, 633rd ABW commander, spoke at the kick-off run and said contributing to the CFC is very easy.
"If you open the CFC book, there are a vast number of different causes you have the opportunity to become involved with. I encourage you to dive in and find something you are passionate about. Whether you want to cure cancer, save a homeless dog, or solve world hunger, there are organizations that could benefit from your donation," said Auch.
"Given the state of our economy, giving is more important now than ever. We live in one of the most prosperous countries in the world, and we have the ability to reach out to those less fortunate than us," said Auch. "As Americans, it's the right thing to do."
With more than 300 campaigns worldwide, CFC contributors raise millions of dollars annually. Here at Langley, CFC fundraising donates nearly 25 percent of the total contributions annually for the Virginia Peninsula.
"The Combined Federal Campaign is the largest and most successful workplace, philanthropic fundraiser in the world," said Capt. George Delong, Air Combat Command CFC project officer. "CFC is the only authorized solicitation of federal employees in their workplaces on behalf of approved charitable organizations. It began in the early 1960's to coordinate fundraising efforts of charitable organizations so that Federal donors would only be solicited once in the workplace and have the opportunity to make contributions through payroll deduction.
Every group and squadron has dedicated CFC representatives with donation forms and informational brochures for the thousands of organizations to which one can donate. Each year, CFC representatives strive to contact each Langley member to ensure they have the opportunity to donate.
Delong said the most popular and easy method of contributing is through payroll deduction. Contributors can have donations deducted from their payroll each month or each pay period.
"It's designed to create the most flexibility allowing personnel to spread their contribution over the entire year eliminating any financial burden that may occur from donating all at one time. Additionally, both federal and non-federal employees can donate via cash or check," said Delong.
Last year federal employees rose more than $281.5 million dollars for charitable causes around the world. This year the goal for the 633rd Air Base Wing is $285 thousand; the goal for ACC Headquarters is $250 thousand. The overall goal for the base this year is $535 thousand.
There will be a base-wide picnic to raise awareness of the CFC Sept. 30 at Memorial Park, and the campaign will run through Nov. 3. For more information on how to donate, contact your unit CFC representative.