CFC-O campaign kicks off in Iraq

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq - With more than $271.6 million donated during the 2006 campaign, the Combined Federal Campaign has begun again.

The CFC is an annual campaign in which donations are solicited from federal employees, and is the only authorized federal charitable solicitation program.

"The CFC is the most successful fund raising model in the world," said Columbus, Ga., native, Master Sgt. Alfred Morgan, the Multi-National Division - Baghdad Morale, Welfare and Recreation Program manager assigned to Headquarter and Headquarters Company, 1st Cavalry Division.

Morgan said donations sent to the CFC will help millions of needy people. These donations are consolidated into one campaign to lower the solicitation cost of the participating charitable organizations.

"You can choose from over 2,000 national and international organizations," he said. The 2007 campaign started Sept. 1 and it will continue until Dec. 15. Donations can be made with cash, by payroll deductions, checks, or credit cards.

In order for this campaign to be successful, coordinators from each unit should let the Soldiers know about the campaign, Morgan said. He suggested the use of e-mail and campaign posters at frequently-visited areas such as the Post Exchange or the dining facilities.

Soldiers can contribute by contacting their brigade CFC community/area project officer or their unit CFC coordinator.

This year, the Combined Federal Campaign-Overseas is sponsoring a giveaway, with the grand prize a 2008 Harley Davidson Sportster motorcycle. The second prize are two airline tickets to and from a destination of the winner's choosing, not to exceed $4,000 and the third prize is a $1,000 U.S. Savings Bond. Donations are not necessary for a chance to participate in the giveaway. Soldiers need to see their unit CFC coordinator to enter. The winners of the giveaway prizes will be announced in April.

Last year, CFC-O raised more than $50 million.