Jackson helps raise $80 million for CFC

By Mr. Robert Timmons (IMCOM)February 1, 2018

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Clyde Penn, an entrepreneur from Washington, D.C. and head of the Combined Federal Campaign in South Carolina, speaks to Fort Jackson community members after the 2nd Quarter Awards Ceremony Jan. 26 at the NCO Club on post. Penn said CFC raised more t... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Not only was Jan. 26 Fort Jackson's day to celebrate its Department of the Army Civilians, but it marked the end of its Combined Federal Campaign as well.

The CFC "raised over $80 million thanks to you," said the head of South Carolina's campaign.

"I am happy to come to tell you that this year has been a very successful year for the Combined Federal Campaign." said Clyde Penn, an entrepreneur from Washington, D.C. and Aiken, South Carolina native, who heads the firm tasked with leading the CFC in the Palmetto State. "Many of you have said, 'there have been a lot of changes,' and yes there has been and we made it through just like we do for everything else in America."

Giving is a part of the Army's "DNA to serve others," said Maj. Gen. Pete Johnson, Fort Jackson commander during the CFC Kickoff Ceremony in September.

There were a few kinks in a new online portal system launched this year, but a six-person team at the Office of Personnel Management helped fix those problems.

"When there is a change there is always a challenge to overcome those barriers, but (by overcoming them) we become even better and stronger," he said.

Next year we are going to start earlier and prepare earlier, he said. "We are going to make sure the charities that look forward to receiving information, funds and support from the federal workforce and the military workforce, will get even more support next year."

CFC and the Army Emergency Relief campaigns are the only times during the year where the Army workforce is solicited for money.

The AER Campaign on Fort Jackson kicks off with an event at 4 p.m. Feb. 23 at the NCO Club on post.