Kunsan kicks off CFC 2011, celebrates campaign's 50th anniversary

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The 2011 Combined Federal Campaign kicked off here Oct. 3 and runs until Dec. 2. This year, the Wolf Pack's campaign goal is $118,000. Last year, the total amount raised was $118,000.

This year's campaign theme is "50 years of Caring".

Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, the CFC is the largest workplace charity campaign in the country and the only campaign authorized to solicit and collect contributions from federal employees in the workplace. This annual fall fundraising drive allows nearly 4 million federal employees and servicemembers to contribute to thousands of local and national non-profit organizations.

"Participating in the Combined Federal Campaign is a way for many federal employees to make a difference through their individual contributions," said Capt. Dennis Deguzman, base CFC project officer and 8th Fighter Wing chaplain. "Contributing to the CFC means we are helping our friends, family and neighbors. I'm really counting on every Wolf Pack member to take part in the 2011 CFC Campaign and to continue the spirit of caring."

Last year, federal employees and servicemembers donated a near record-setting $281.5 million to the campaign. Since its inception, the federal community has donated nearly $7 billion to the CFC over the last 50 years.

"These contributions have been used to help combat disease, protect our planet, feed the hungry, and lift up individuals and communities at home and around the world," said President Barack Obama in his annual CFC kickoff letter. "Our Nation has always been a land of opportunity and optimism. As Americans, we take responsibility for ourselves and for each other; for the ideals we embrace and for the future we share."

"We celebrate selflessness and value those across our country who step forward and make unprecedented contributions to the well-being of humanity," the president added.

Contributions can be made through squadron or group representatives in cash, check or by payroll deduction. Donors may designate which charity, or charities, receive their money by filling out a pledge form.

"Together we can make a difference in our world one donation at a time," Deguzman said. "I feel confident that at least one of the more than 3,000 worthwhile charities will speak to us personally."

For more information or to find out how to contribute, contact 782-4300.