CFC kicks off with higher 2012 goal

The Fort Huachuca Combined Federal Campaign kicked off with a breakfast last week, with guest speaker Brian Kish explaining the CFC focus and how it helps people all over the world. The campaign will run until Dec. 17.

The CFC is the largest annual work-place charitable program. It combines a multitude of non-profit organizations, allowing employees to decide which organization they wish to donate to. There are more than 1,600 charities locally, nationally and internationally to choose from.

The CFC mission statement is to support and promote 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.

Charities and organizations supported by the CFC assist people who need help, to include homeless, hungry and sick children and families. According to the website www.cfcaz.org, almost all of what is donated is sent to the charities, with only a small percentage being used for administrative costs (7.6 percent in 2010).

Service members and federal employees can make donations via payroll deduction of an amount of their choice (starting in January), or a lump sum via check or cash. The payroll deduction option gives an advantage, allowing a small amount to be deducted each pay period to the charity that an employee may have a specific interest in. Contractors can make donations via check or cash only.

“I get to see a teddy bear delivered and to see a kid cry because when he had to leave the abusive home, he had to leave the teddy bear at home. This is what you are doing [by donating.] I know you don’t always get to see it, but I hope you know what is on the other side,” Brian Kish said at the CFC breakfast.

Fort Huachuca’s goal for 2012 is $450,000, in hopes to increase last year’s total of $427,000. For more information or to make a donation, contact the CFC coordinator, Sgt. 1st Class Jennifer Widdows, 533.4270 or go to www.cfcaz.org.