FORT JACKSON, S.C. --I am proud of the Fort Jackson community for the generosity it has shown so far this year in support of the 2011 Combined Federal Campaign, which will soon come to a close. As of this week, Fort Jackson's contribution total was roughly $510,000. These funds will go a long way in supporting a great number of charitable organizations that depend on us.
So far we have had a relatively strong showing from the Fort Jackson community in climbing toward our $750,000 goal, which we run the risk of not meeting. The key factor in our less than desirable monetary total is that our level of participation remains low. As of last week, the participation rate was slightly under 20 percent. I am hopeful that number will increase in the final days of the campaign as we anticipate more contributions will be turned in.
This is certainly a worthwhile endeavor. I realize that we are still operating in a challenging economic climate, and I am grateful to see the Fort Jackson community do what it can to support this most worthy cause.
The economy was also sluggish in 2010, yet service members and federal workers somehow rallied and pledged more than $281.5 million to the overall CFC effort, making the campaign-wide total the second highest in the CFC's 50-year history. Coincidentally, that sum was less than 1 percent off its record-setting effort of $282.6 million, which it posted back in 2009. It would be very refreshing and gratifying to see a superb finish and a repeat of last year. The campaign ends Dec. 15, one week from today.
As you know this is a very special year for the CFC as it marks its 50th anniversary. Since 1961, federal workers, here and across the nation, have donated more than $6 billion, making the CFC one of the largest charitable organizations in the world.
The CFC promotes and supports 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. Pledges made by military, federal civilian and postal donors during the campaign season support eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits around the world.
As you might guess, Fort Jackson makes up a significant part of the Midlands Area CFC effort, which traditionally has exhibited a genuine willingness to reach out to the less fortunate. The Midlands goal this year is to raise $1.5 million in charitable contributions. There are 78 local charities from which to choose, in addition to the national and international ones that can be designated. Be assured that all of the listed recipient organizations have met the CFC's public accountability standards and eligibility criteria.
Overall, CFC comprises 209 campaign regions in the United States and 25,000 charities. The CFC also supports some of our efforts on post. There are three installation programs -- Fort Jackson Army Community Services, Child, Youth and School Services and the installation volunteers -- that are all supported through CFC funding. Members of the Fort Jackson community should take comfort in knowing that their generosity continues to improve the lives of countless people in our own area.
As a result, numerous children, senior citizens, and disabled people receive the help they desperately need. Not only do less fortunate people receive assistance, but educational and research programs -- as well as environmental incentives -- are supported through our generosity. Let's see what we can do to make this another great effort this year from Fort Jackson!
Remember, any little bit helps and is greatly appreciated.