CFC 2009 -- a unique year to share from prosperity

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Agneta Murnan
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Team Vance officially kicked off its 2009 Combined Federal Campaign during a lunch at the base's Collocated Club Friday, Sept. 25. The base's campaign will continue through Nov. 6; the Department of Defense campaign concludes Dec. 15. 

CFC was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to arrange annual time for federal employees to make payroll deductions or one-time donations to registered organizations supporting human health and welfare. Participating charities now total more than 1,500 and span a wide range of local, state, national and international causes. 

"Each year, through the Combined Federal Campaign, we have the opportunity to give back a small portion to those who support us every day," said Gen. Stephen Lorenz, commander of Air Education and Training Command. "Our communities are stronger for it." 

As part of Vance's yearly drive, "key workers" in each squadron and group will travel through base units distributing donation forms, answering questions and making contact. 

"This year presents unique challenges to the CFC drive," explained Col. Chris Nowland, 71st Flying Training Wing commander. "The current state of the global economy has the nation saving more than ever. I urge each Team Vance member to consider those who are less fortunate and those who could benefit from the CFC -- this year particularly." 

Participation is voluntary; military and civilian employees at Vance AFB have until Nov. 6 to select their favorite causes, research the organizations in which they are interested, and dedicate an amount to contribute. 

The electronic 2009 Federal CFC Charity List which contains a brief description of the campaign and each participating organization, the Vance Key Workers points of contact, frequently asked questions and a sample form can be found at www.vance.af.mil. The official Web site of the national Combined Federal Campaign is http://www.opm.gov/cfc/. 

"The Vance community is fortunate," Colonel Nowland said. "Let us share our prosperity."