FORT STEWART, Ga. - During these tough economic times, raising funds to help others may seem like a daunting task, yet Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield Soldiers, Family Members, Civilians and retirees answered the call in an overwhelming way.

The final numbers were released for the 2012 Army Emergency Relief Campaign and the goal was surpassed by more than $100,000. Randy Knox, Army Community Services AER campaign manager stated the official amount donated was $368,274.27 surpassing the goal of $250,000. Knox said the program was run a little different this year. The AER coordinators were placed at the brigade level instead of the unit level.

"The AER coordinators for that particular brigade … initially brought all their funds to the division coordinator, which made it run more smoothly," Knox said. "It also basically made it easier for the division coordinator to input the data."

Knox stated through the help of the command team this mission was accomplished.

"I would say the support of the senior command, and our directorates ... were very supportive of the campaign this year and that helped us not only reach that goal, but surpass that goal."

When Soldiers are deployed Family Members may find themselves in dire financial straits and feel as if they have nowhere to turn. Knox said most important document for Family Members to have is an updated Power of Attorney with a stipulation for AER loans or grants.

"We try to instill in them that they have their power of attorney," Knox said. "Make sure that their readiness packet is straight prior to them (Soldiers) leaving that way there is no issues. That way having the power of attorney, then they don't need the signatures from the unit commanders. And that way they can get taken care of because … it is the Soldiers' loan."

Staff Sergeant Wyndalynn Young, Division Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, Third Infantry Division stated that being an active-duty Soldier and having a Civilian spouse, she ensures that her husband always has an up-to-date POA. Staff Sgt. Young, who has been the Marne Television face of the Fort Stewart 2012 AER campaign, agrees with Knox's sentiment and sees the importance of getting the message out to other Soldiers.

"A lot of times Soldiers can relate when they see a green suitor that's supporting or promoting something for the length of time that we are out here doing it," she said. "They (Soldiers) have a lot of continuity, with not only the message but with my face as well and drive forth that message [to] support, donate, contribute and let's make it happen."

Last year AER loaned or granted more than $1.7 million to the Stewart-Hunter communities, and although the amount is small in comparison, it means a lot to the Soldiers, Families and retirees who utilize the service.

"We have assisted from the top all the way to the bottom," said Knox. "So we always tell people you never know when you are going to be in that number; from the officers all the way to the lower enlisted. We really appreciate all the support that we have had this year in the 2012 campaign, … AER is all about Soldiers helping Soldiers."