Team Misawa contributes to global cause

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Cammie Quinn
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  It takes a village to raise a child, and in the case of this year's fundraising campaign, it takes the combined efforts of Team Misawa to gather donations to affect the world.

The Combined Federal Campaign is the only authorized solicitation of Federal employees in their work places on behalf of approved charitable organizations. The campaign kicked-off at Misawa Air Base Oct. 3 and will continue to Dec. 4.

The initiative coordinates the fundraising efforts of various charitable organizations so the federal donor would be solicited only once to make contributions in the workplace, said Capt. Lisa Charles, 35th Fighter Wing sexual assault response coordinator and this year's community area project officer.

Since its beginnings more than 40 years ago, CFC has grown to sponsor more than 2,300 charitable organizations benefiting local and global communities and interests, Captain Charles added.

Charities are grouped into categories, which include everything from arts, culture and humanities to medical research, spiritual development and human services.

"Benefits of the program are world-wide, and anyone can find an interest," said Captain Charles. "Every single person on this planet has a cause near and dear to their heart.

"If you have a loved one you lost to a disease, an organization may provide research to end the disease," she added.

Unit representatives are contacting their respective squadrons, and are providing information and answers to ensure an understanding of the annual endeavor. Anyone can contribute and donations will be accepted through Dec. 4.

"We can take cash, credit cards, checks, change and even Yen," said Captain Charles. "Every dime helps and it all goes to a great cause."

Like last year, Navy and Air Force personnel are teaming up to host the CFC.

"The Misawa Air Force team collected $187,000 last year," said the captain. "This year our goal is $200,000."

Contributors have three options when determining an organization to which to donate. Donations can go toward a specified charity or the Family Support and Youth Program.  Contributions that are not designated to a specific organization are evenly distributed to all organizations listed in the CFC Charity List.

"FSYP specifically benefits the community at Misawa AB," said Captain Charles. "The funds can go where the base needs them. In the past, FSYP funds have provided money for things from constructing bus-stop awnings to purchasing school supplies."

For more information, visit the overseas CFC Website at www.cfcoverseas.org.