LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Brush off the 7-foot thermometer; it's time to start raising the temperature again.
The CFC temperature, that is.
Sept. 21 marked the kickoff of Langley's 2007 Combined Federal Campaign, a program that provides federal employees with an opportunity to support local national and international charities, improving the quality of life for all, according to the CFC's Web site.
The campaign, which is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, helps raise millions of dollars each year, according to the Web site.
Last year, the 1st Fighter Wing and Air Combat Command raised a combined total of more than $475,000; however, Maj. Gary Rice, this year's CFC installation project officer, said the campaign is about more than the dollar amount, recalling several people he knew who were helped by CFC-supported charities.
"I'm sure every person on base can think of someone they know who has been helped by one of the organizations listed in the brochure," said the major. "I can think of a friend's terminally ill mother made more comfortable during her last days; my grandmother was enabled to live more comfortably by having meals delivered; and another friend was able to be with her new born son during his open heart surgery."
Although the purpose of the CFC is to raise money, the major said it's more about "doing the right thing that helps those who are near and dear to our hearts."
"The people who have been helped by these organizations can't put a price tag on the peace of mind, comfort and emotional support that these organizations have provided for them," Major Rice said.
There are thousands of organizations to which people can contribute - from international to locally based community organizations, the CFC project officer explained. People can even donate to base agencies, including the NASA and Langley programs.
People who wish to donate to an organization of their choice by check, or payroll deduction can contact their unit CFC representative by Nov. 2.