CFC kicks off "50 years of Giving"

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Gustavo Gonzalez
  • Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR HICKAM, Hawaii --  "50 Years of Giving" is this year's motto for the Combined Federal Campaign, which was officially kicked-off here, Oct. 3.

Last year the Hawaii Pacific region raised $6.5 million and CFC totaled more than $282.6 million nation-wide.

"This year's goals for the Hawai'i Pacific Area are to raise $6.5 million, increase payroll deduction from 70 percent to 85 percent, and as always ensure 100 percent face-to-face contact with all federal employees," said Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Jabari Ashanti, CFC Air Force Region Hawaii project officer.

The CFC was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961. It's an annual fund-raising drive conducted by Federal employees in their workplace each fall. The mission of the CFC is to encourage philanthropy and to provide all Federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all.

According to Ashanti, There are more than 2,700 charities listed annually to include homelessness, addiction, education, cancer research, animals and support our troops.

"If someone has at least one area they think is worth supporting there are many charities to choose from," Ashanti said.

According to Ashanti, participating in the CFC makes a difference.

"Even a five dollar per month contribution is making a difference," Ashanti said. "A five dollar per month donation provides safe afterschool activities for six youths; $20 per month provides five wigs for children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy; $40 per month provides a lightweight wheelchair for a person who is physically challenged; and $80 per month provides cleft lip surgeries for four children or young adults."

To contribute, Airmen should contact their unit's CFC representative. These designated representatives will provide a list of eligible charities and a form, which allows the donors to choose their method of payment. The donation can be a monthly payroll deduction or a one-time lump sum.

The CFC ends Nov. 18. For more information, visit the official website at www.cfc-hawaii.org.