CFC campaign kicks off

Cannon AFB’s Combined Federal Campaign kicked off Oct. 5 during the wing’s Commando Run and runs until Nov. 16.

The CFC provides the opportunity for all federal employees to give to their favorite charity. Its mission is to promote and support 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. This year’s CFC theme is iCan Now More Than Ever.

The base’s 2009 goal is $90,000 and with approximately 3,500 federal employees that equates to only $.07 a day or $2.15 a month per person — less than the average price of a latte. Last year Cannon’s federal employees donated $73,000, exceeding their goal by $23,000.

While many federal employees have heard of the CFC, not everyone knows exactly what this philanthropic organization is all about.

Prior to the 1950’s, employees would have donated their money to various charities in an unorganized manner. These donations were generally low and both donors and charities were not satisfied. However, in 1971 these various campaigns consolidated to a combined effort establishing the CFC.

Today the CFC is known to be the most inclusive workplace giving campaign in the world with an estimated 2,000 charities worldwide. Since its founding in 1971, federal employees have given a total of $5 billion dollars.

It is important to research before donating money because there are various charities including national and international, as well as, on-base and charities in the local community.

When browsing through the 2009 Cannon CFC Charity Listings, it is important for people to look at the information about the charity they wish to donate to. Every listing has contact information including a website, phone number, and an administrative cost percentage.

Another goal at Cannon is to make 100 percent contact with all employees, military and civilian. This will ensure that everyone has receives information about how they can donate to benefit a charity. CFC unit representatives are responsible for establishing contact in their sections. Those who wish to donate can also seek out their group CFC representative listed below.

The 2009 Cannon group CFC representatives are:

27 Special Operations Wing/Wing Staff Agencies:

• Tech Sgt. Gloria Wilson

27th Special Operations Group:

• 1st Lt. Scott Dahm

• 1st Lt. Scott Swigonski

27th Special Operations Mission Support Group:

• 2nd Lt. Jeremy Interrante

• 1st Lt. Ryan Bamford

27th Special Operations Maintenance Group:

• 2nd Lt. Jason Henderson

• Senior Master Sgt. Thad LaTour

27th Special Operations Medical Group:

• Tech Sgt. Michael Buongiorne

An electronic copy of the CFC Charity Listing Booklet can also be accessed online at www.cnnmcfc.org. Personnel can donate online, but are encouraged to bring in a copy of their donations to a CFC representative so it can be counted toward reaching Cannon’s contribution goal.