MARINE CORPS AIR STATION, BEAUFORT, S.C. -- The front lawn of Fightertown’s Exchange was transformed into “Operation Donation” Sept. 14, as representatives from various Combined Federal Campaign organizations joined Air Station organizers to launch the 2006 CFC fund-raiser campaign.
During the two-hour kick off, contributors had the opportunity to enjoy a free lunch while learning about the CFC. The event was coordinated by 2nd Lt. Jacob Hoskins, the Air Station’s CFC coordinator and included volunteers from several charities, such as the Habitat for Humanity.
“More important to me than a specific dollar figure is seeing that everyone is given an opportunity to contribute,” said Col. Robert Lanham, the Air Station commanding officer. “Although we don’t compel people to give, the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing everyone pitch in.”
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, according to Hoskins. Pledges made by federal civilian, postal and military donors during the campaign season help to support eligible nonprofit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world.
This year, the Air Station has set the CFC campaign goal to $50,000 to contribute to the organizations worldwide effort.
“I think we have a shot at reaching this year’s goal,” Hoskins said. “Local charities will have the opportunity to receive money that will help keep their organizations running so they can continue to do great things.”
Each squadron aboard the Air Station will designate a CFC representative who will distribute fund-raiser forms and collect donations from interested contributors. Donations can be made to national or local organizations with a one-time cash donation or through allotments taken for one year. Undesignated donations - funds donated with no specific charity selected - are spread throughout all the organizations that make up the CFC.
“Donations to the CFC are open to anyone interested in contributing,” Hoskins said. “But, only federal employees have the option to give by means of allotment.”
People who make a donation will be given a small token to show the CFC’s appreciation, according to Hoskins. Anyone who donates will receive a small calendar. Those who donate $200 or more will receive a coffee mug in addition to the calendar. Donations of $500 or more will be awarded a small cooler or a tote bag, in addition to the other gifts. Those who donate $1,000 will be given a ceramic eagle.
“We get a lot from our country and community,” Lanham said. “This is our one chance a year to monetarily give something back.”
For more information about CFC, contact your squadron representative or visit www.opm.gov/cfc. or Hoskins at 228-6774.