AFAF reaches for 2013 goal

Published March 22, 2013
By Senior Airman Kate Vaughn
56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- The Air Force Assistance Fund kicks off Monday at Luke Air Force Base and continues through May 3. The Air Force-wide campaign raises funds to benefit Airmen and their families, including active-duty members, retirees, reservists, guardsmen and surviving spouses.

Last year, Luke members contributed $90,000 exceeding the goal by $20,000. This year's goal is $68,513, but the campaign doesn't have to stop there, said 2nd Lt. Rigel Valverde, 2013 AFAF installation project officer.

"Our goal given by the AFAF is just over sixty-eight thousand, five hundred dollars for this year, but our base goal is one hundred thousand dollars," Valverde said. "I believe it's important that Luke reaches its goal, so Air Force members and families can see the support of their fellow wingmen and know that regardless of the hard economic times we're in, the mission will not be affected."

Charities that benefit from AFAF donations include:

· The Air Force Village: provides cost-effective living options to widows or widowers of career retired Air Force officers.

· The Air Force Enlisted Village: provides homes to enlisted surviving spouses who are in dire need.

· The Air Force Aid Society: the official charity of the Air Force which assists in relieving financial emergencies faced by active-duty members and their families.

· The LeMay Foundation: provides financial assistance to widows of all retired Air Force members.

Donations by cash, check or payroll deduction are accepted. To donate, call or email the squadron AFAF representative.