CFC kicks off on Columbus AFB

  • Published
  • By Capt. Joel Kliewer
  • 48th Flying Training Squadron
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  The 2012 Combined Federal Campaign is now underway on Columbus Air Force Base. This year's CFC kickoff became official as Col. Jim Sears, 14th Flying Training Wing Commander signed his pledge form on the dotted line. This year's campaign will run from Oct. 1 to 31.

Since 1961 the CFC has provided a consolidated fund raising effort for federal agencies to give to over 20,000 charities worldwide. Last year alone the CFC raised over $272 million for local, national, and international charities. Locally, Team Blaze crushed its 2011 goal by raising an astounding $117,633.

The mission of the CFC is to promote and support philanthropy through a program that is employee focused, cost-efficient, and effective in providing all federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all. The CFC also goes to great lengths to ensure the generous donations are getting to the people who need it. All charities are screened annually by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Additionally the CFC provides the percentage of donations that are used for charity versus overhead costs in the catalogue.

This year's campaign comes at a time when the United States is facing tough challenges in a recovering economy. Many Airmen are fortunate to have a stable paycheck and job security. Imagine if each of the 2,289 people at Columbus gave just $5 per month. Individually it seems like an insignificant amount but the base as a whole would raise more than $137,000. Even the smallest donation is important!

Each squadron or agency in the 14th FTW has a point of contact to accept donations. Watch the base newspaper for lists of on-base or local charities you can donate to and make a positive difference in the community around us.