McConnell kicks off charity campaign Published Nov. 11, 2009 By Senior Airman Jessica Lockoski 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- McConnell recently dusted off its Combined Federal Campaign goal sign and placed it just inside the base's main gate. The sign's red goal thermometer is set to zero indicating the CFC is officially underway. The annual campaign will run through Dec. 15. "We are hopeful the thermometer will climb its way past the $110,000 marker through the generous giving of Team McConnell members," said Capt. Jason Tesar, who's heading CFC at McConnell this year. CFC is different from other national fundraising campaigns because it's the only government-approved program authorizing the solicitation of funds from federal employees in their workplaces on behalf of charitable organizations. "CFC is largest and most successful fundraising model in the world, having raised $600 billion since its inception," said the captain. The campaign has been around more than 40 years, coordinating fundraising efforts for eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world. CFC offers Team McConnell members an opportunity to provide a better quality of life for people in need. More than 2,000 non-profit organizations are listed in this year's CFC brochure, 35 of which directly benefit the local area. In past years, McConnell has been the South Central Kansas area's largest contributor. The base's donors supplemented one fourth of CFC contributions. Whether participants' goals are to honor military veterans, support medical research, facilitate community improvement projects, assist educational institutions, and more, the brochure has something for everyone. Supporters can make donations through military payroll deductions or by cash or check. People who wish to donate should contact their group or squadron CFC representatives, who can provide campaign booklets and pledge cards. For more information, people can also call Captain Tesar at 759-5957. People can also contact McConnell's group-level CFC representatives listed below. 22nd Operations Group 1st Lt. Amal Nazzall 22nd Maintenance Group Master Sgt. Nicole Gerhardt 22nd Mission Support Group Master Sgt. Donald Tipton 22nd Medical Group 1st Lt. Jill Roser 22nd Air Refueling Wing Director of Staff Master Sgt. Ronald Yarber