CFC kicks-off at RAF Mildenhall

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Victoria H. Taylor
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF Mildenhall, England - --   Team Mildenhall began its 2014 Combined Federal Campaign with a golf tournament Sept. 11, 2014, on RAF Lakenheath, England.

The CFC runs through Nov. 7, with events scheduled throughout to bring awareness to the campaign.

The CFC is a voluntary program which allows federal employees to make donations to any of the more than 2,000 national and international charitable organizations that are part of the campaign.

"Last year, Team Mildenhall had the second highest participation in the U.S. European Command by contributing more than $147,500," said Capt. Joel Haarer, 100th Operations Support Squadron Airfield Operations flight commander. "This year our monetary goal is $160,000, but I think with the help of our outstanding unit representatives, we can hit it out of the park."

Volunteers strive to ensure the donation process is simple and versatile. Donors are able to make a one-time payment with cash or check, or have a direct deposit set up through their MyPay account in ongoing increments.

"Since being involved with the CFC as a unit representative, I've noticed what a huge impact this campaign can have on so many lives," said Haarer. "We are all very fortunate to have the opportunity to serve, which also allows us the opportunity to give back."

In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower formally tasked the U.S. Office of Personnel Management with the development of a uniform policy for fundraising within the federal service. The CFC was officially founded in 1961 when President John F. Kennedy signed an executive order authorizing the U.S. Civil Service Commission to develop guidelines to regulate fundraising for federal employees.

Today, the campaign is the largest workplace charity campaign in the United States. Each year, more than 350 CFC, throughout the world help raise millions of dollars, and continue to be the largest and most successful workplace fundraising model in the world.

"This year, our motto is 'Give to make a difference; Give because you care' and together we can make a difference," said Haarer.

For more information, contact your unit CFC representative or visit www.cfcoverseas.org.