CFC : Make a difference, make a donation

By Spc. Brandon BabbittNovember 7, 2009

CFC
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

"The Combined Federal Campaign is an effort that has

provided phenomenal support to those in need for many

years," said Maj. Gen. Peter Vangjel. deputy commanding

general, Third Army. "The impact of the contributors to

CFC are felt worldwide."

The mission of CFC is to promote and support charitable

donations through a program that is employee focused and

effective in providing all federal employees an opportunity

to improve the quality of life for those organized under a

certain charity.

"In the military, we commit ourselves to serving our

country. Military members support the United States and

their communities in many ways," said Vangjel. "CFC

provides another option for us to demonstrate our service to

the nation."

CFC is the largest and most successful annual workplace

charity campaign in the world. There are more than 300

national and international campaigns under CFC, which

raise millions of dollars each year for approved charities.

Pledges made by federal civilian, postal and military

donors during the campaign season support eligible nonprofit

organizations that provide health and human service

benefits around the globe.

Over 270 million dollars were raised last year through

CFC. Some of the more popular charities for service

members to give to are Wounded Warrior Project, Make A

Wish Foundation, Habitat For Humanity, and Africa AIDS

Watch.

Master Gunnery Sgt. Juan Velasquez, CFC's Program

Manager for Third Army, sees this opportunity as a unique

way to be part of an initiative that gives back to those in

need.

"This is the first time I've been tasked with this

responsibility," said Velasquez. It has been a great

experience working with other military members in

promoting this important campaign."

With all the different charities with the campaign,

Velasquez encourages military members to donate to one

that they can relate to.

"We don't live in a perfect world," Velasquez said. "Try

to donate to a charity that hits close to home. With about

2,000 charities to choose from, look for something that you

can relate to. It will make you feel better about giving."

The easiest way for a military member to give is to

complete a pledge card and request an allotment be taken

out of their pay. That way, a certain amount can be given to

whatever charity they select.

Other payment methods are cash, check, or an online

donation with a credit card. Civilian contractors are

not eligible for the program. Contact your CFC Unit

Representative for more information.