MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, SC -- Every year, the Combined Federal Campaign raises money to offer assistance to more than 1,500 non- profit organizations around the world.
This year, the Air Station will attempt to raise at least $55,000 in support of the
campaign.
“The CFC is a great way for military members to extend their hand of public service,” said Chief Warrant Officer Three Carlos A. Lobo, Tri-Command CFC coordinator, Beaufort. “It allows us to help thousands of people for only a couple dollars a month.”
Established more than 50 years ago, the CFC is the only authorized organization that may raise money in the federal workplace on behalf of charitable organizations. Lobo and other designated CFC coordinators will begin collecting donations today.“
For just 66 cents a day, which is less than what most spend on sodas, we can help organizations rebuild diminishing communities or save the lives of cancer struck children,” Lobo said.
With a CFC pledge card, military family members and civilian employees
can donate with a one-time cash donation or check. The pledge card will be provided at each unit by designated personnel. All federal employees have the same option or they can start a military allotment.
“The military allotment is one of the best ways to donate,” Lobo said. “It is basically worry free because, it comes directly out of each paycheck and the service member never has to send it in.”
Contributors to the campaign can research their organization in the CFC booklet, which is provided at the time of donation, or call them to receive more information about the charity before donating.
“In the CFC booklet, there is a brief description of each organization, what they do and a
number to call in case people have more questions,” Lobo said. “We are try
ing to disband the idea that donations do not actually reach the charities, people can call these organizations at any time to find out how much they are helping the community.”
Organizations of the CFC are divided into three main categories, national, int
ernational, and local. The local organizations are divided into regions based upon the United States. They are divided into southern, eastern, western and northern regions.
“The local portion of the CFC is a great way to help charities around the Beaufort
area,” Lobo said. “People have the option of helping the larger organizations or choose to donate a few dollars for the local soup kitchen. It’s a win, win situation.”
Nearly four million federal employees donate to the Combined Federal Campaign each ye
ar, according to the CFC.
For the 2004 season kick-off, the local Federal Tri-Command Committee will be having a brunch today at the Officers Club aboard MCAS to provide further information and allow Military members, civilian employees and their family m
embers an opportunity to donate.
“I encourage all federal employees to donate what ever amount they can,” Lobo said. “It’s tax deductible, self rewarding and helps all of us give back to a community that supports the military.”