Combined Federal Campaign kickoff

  • Published
  • By Maj. Joyce Beaty
  • 56th Medical Group practice manager
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  This year's Combined Federal Campaign slogan is "iCan, iCare, Now More Than Ever!" 

Although it's a slogan, I actually hear it as more of a warrior cry. Now more than ever, nonprofit CFC organizations in our community and nationwide need our support. The vast majority of these charities rely heavily on annual CFC contributions and this year have pinned their hopes on those donations. 

This year, more than ever, we'd like to encourage all the men and women, the true warriors of the 56th Fighter Wing, to participate. 

Economically, it's been a rough year for some. Many families that normally support CFC organizations are now relying on those charities to help them make ends meet. Charitable organizations are on the front lines helping them battle the economy, and they need your help. 

This past year we've become acutely aware of the value of things that had been taken for granted - housing, food, family, health. This awareness has served as a reminder that basic needs are essential to everyone. 

Imagine if each of the 5,905 personnel assigned to Luke gave just $2 a pay period, $4 a month, for a total of $48 a year. That would total more than $283,000. Two dollars out of a paycheck is something most people wouldn't even miss. 

This year more than ever we need you to participate, to contribute to one of the 2,700 diverse CFC organizations. There is bound to be a cause that each person can believe in and support. 

If you've considered participating, but just haven't done so over the years, this is the year. Join us by giving to any of the local, national or international organizations. They need each of us to step up and show our support through our donation. 

If you are one of the hundreds that contribute annually to the CFC - thank you and please continue to contribute. The CFC charities need you and are counting on your contributions. 

This year's campaign runs from Oct. 1 through Nov. 13. Brig. Gen. Kurt Neubauer, 56th Fighter Wing commander, will host a CFC kickoff breakfast at 7 a.m. Oct. 1 at Club Thunderbolt. The guest speaker is Kadi Tierney, Pat Tillman Foundation executive director. 

There will be nine local charities on site with information on their organizations. The chiefs and first sergeants associations have donated funds to significantly lower the cost of the meal - a clear sign of their commitment to garner your support and participation.
I hope to see as many of you there as the mission allows.