FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Combined Federal Campaign. Federal workers have been supporting CFC since 1961, and during this time have donated more than $6 billion, making the CFC one of the largest charitable organizations in the world. As many of you know, CFC's mission is to provide all federal employees the opportunity to donate to a worthy charity.

Fort Jackson's Soldiers and federal employees will soon have an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others by supporting our post campaign drive. The campaign season kicks off Aug. 29 with an afternoon event at the Officers' Club and runs from Sept. 1 through Dec. 14. Our goal this year is to exceed $750,000 in donations to the more than 25,000 charities offered through CFC.

Last year, even with a sputtering economy, service members and federal workers pledged more than $281.5 million Armywide to CFC, just shy of the 2009 record-setting endeavor of $282.6 million. This unselfishness speaks highly of our federal workforce and strikes to the core of our Army values.

As they do every year, Soldiers and civilians on Fort Jackson will have the opportunity to select where their charitable dollars go. This year there are 78 local charities from which to choose and thousands more at the national and international level. Be assured that all of the listed recipient organizations have met the CFC's public accountability standard and eligibility criteria. The CFC supports many of our own valued programs on post, to include Army Community Services and Child and Youth Services.

Contributors from the Fort Jackson community can take comfort in knowing that their generosity continues to improve the quality of life of people worldwide. These donations help the impoverished, the disabled, and provides funding for educational, research, and environmental programs.

Let there be no doubt -- your contribution makes a difference, regardless of the amount given. I encourage you to donate what you can to your charity of choice. You can arrange your CFC donation through payroll deduction or pay as a one-time cash or check payment. Payroll deduction is probably the easiest and most efficient way to give. If you have given in the past, then you know it's a worthy cause. If you have never participated in the CFC, now is a perfect time to start.

Again, I encourage you to give. Despite our challenges, we still live in the greatest country in the world, and everyone should feel compelled to help us meet the needs of those who truly are in need, and there are many.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and your compassion.

Army Strong and Victory Starts Here!