Travis kicks off CFC

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kristen Rohrer
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The Travis Combined Federal Campaign will kick off Oct. 9 and run through Nov. 21.

CFC, the largest annual workplace charity campaign in the United States, collects contributions from federal employees, including servicemembers, on behalf of different charitable organizations.

"The theme for this year's event will be 'Two Minutes to Make a Difference,'" said Maj. Jim Yao, Travis CFC representative. "The hope is that all of us will be able to give two minutes of time out of our day to help others. Donations of any amount, when combined with others, will make a huge difference and fund many needs."

This year, Travis' goal is to raise at least $350,000. Servicemembers also have a choice of donating to five organizations dedicated to the Travis community this year, Major Yao explained. "Many of us have benefited directly from these agencies and it is now our chance to give something back in appreciation," he added.

For those interested in donating, contributions will be accepted in the form of cash, check and payroll deduction. Payroll deduction is the most common form of donation because it allows servicemembers to give more and have a small amount deducted from a paycheck each month, Major Yao said.

Deployed individuals who wish to donate will be able to participate in the respective overseas CFC's and not through the Travis Campaign. The overseas CFC's offer the same charities found in stateside locations, according to Col. William Foote, director of personnel services.

There will be a CFC kick-off event Oct. 15 at 10:30 a.m., in the David Grant USAF Medical Center's auditorium.

Individuals personally helped by past CFC donations will speak at the event and various charities will be in attendance to provide more information about their charities to Team Travis members.

"For people able to donate this year, their generosity is sincerely appreciated," Major Yao said. "I hope everyone will look through the brochures as they are a great place not only for finding charities to give to, but also for locating agencies that may be able to help those in need."

"I think it is easy for each of us to find a charity associated with someone or something that has touched our lives in the past," said Capt. Jason Reid, CFC representative. "In doing so, it makes the act of giving a much more personal experience."

For more information on the local community campaign, visit the regional Web site http://www.bayareacfc.com/online_brochure.htm.