CFC kicks off today; McConnell raises 2006 goal

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Darlene Foote
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The 2006-2007 Combined Federal Campaign officially kicks off here today and will run through Nov. 16. 

Last year, federal employees and servicemembers donated a record-setting $268.5 million to the CFC. Contributions can be made by payroll deduction, cash or check.
McConnell members contributed a total of $111,000 last year. According to Capt. Jennifer Williams, CFC chairman, this year's goal is 100 percent contact and $116,000.
"This year we will also have two traveling trophies that will be awarded to the squadron and group that reaches the greatest percentage of their monetary goal," said Captain Williams. 

The CFC, which started in 1961, is the nation's largest workplace charity drive. Since its beginning, the CFC has raised more than $5.5 billion. 

Donations through CFC can be designated to charitable agencies that provide meals for hungry children, relief for families in need of counseling, further work on cures for diseases, comfort for the dying, access to water in the Third World, environmental protection, and better lives and renewed hope for millions of people. 

McConnell's 60 key workers heard from a few of the people who know firsthand the impact the program has in the community, during a kick-off luncheon Wednesday. 

"Hearing from the people who have benefited from the CFC personally simply reinforced the importance of what our key workers are doing," said Senior Master Sgt. Daniel Stipanuk, CFC co-chairman. 

"We are grateful to the people who have volunteered to help make this year's campaign a success, he said. 

According to CFC officials, one in four federal employees or their dependents will benefit from CFC charities this year.