Combined Federal Campaign kicks off

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Wesley Wright
  • 442nd Fighter Wing/Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  For more than 50 years, the Combined Federal Campaign has afforded federal employees and military members the opportunity to donate to a variety of charitable organizations.

From small to large community groups and worldwide charities, more than 20,000 non-profit organizations are supported by the CFC.

The organization's yearly drive began Oct. 1 and is scheduled to run through Nov. 22.

Tech. Sgt. Transia Harris, 495th Fighter Group, Detachment 303, CFC organizer, is coordinating the efforts of the 442nd Fighter Wing to raise $7,680, which will contribute to the total Whiteman Air Force Base goal of $140,000.

"It gives you the opportunity to give to a good cause," he said. "Plus, it can in turn help you out when you are in need."

Harris became the coordinator shortly before the kick-off of this year's campaign.

"I volunteered for this position," he said. "It's a great feeling to help and donate my time and effort."

Harris cited the Airmen's Retirement Home as a specific example of a charity that can help retired Airmen now, and can also help them down the road.

With the large number of charities, donors can pick where their donation money goes, Harris said, or leave that decision up to the CFC.

"It's a great organization, and I believe in it," he said. "The CFC helps people from the local level all the way up to the world stage."

"There are so many ways you can help others," Harris said, "so many ways to support our community, and our country."

Harris said despite the government shutdown and furloughs for federal employees, giving to those in need is still important.

"I can understand the financial binds some people are in," he said. "But, I still believe people will donate because of the dividends it brings back to them. One day, someone might be donating to you."

As computers, social media and smart phones become a bigger part of peoples' lives, Harris said this affords the CFC the opportunity to extend their reach.

"Our goal is to reach 100 percent of the people," he said. "Through Facebook and the website at www.heartlandcfc.org, people can donate online, in addition to the traditional paper forms you see at work. It's as easy as paying bills online."

For more information on the CFC, reservists and civilians may contact Tech Sgt. Harris at 660-687-4713, visit heartlandcfc.org, or contact their unit representative.