Annual CFC gives opportunities to help local, worldwide community

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Raughton
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Every year, Airmen have a chance to make a contribution to those in need, but this year, Airmen have extra time to make a difference.

Until Jan. 15, Airmen and civilian employees can donate to a charitable organization of their choice under the Combined Federal Campaign.

The CFC coordinates with accredited fundraising and nonprofit organizations so the federal government is only solicited once a year and contributions can be made via payroll deduction.

There are more than 2,600 charitable organizations that Airmen can donate to.

"Individual donors select the charities," said Maj. Mary Workman, 2nd Bomb Wing CFC representative. "There are national charities, international charities and some are local to the area. About 60 of the charities are in Shreveport."

Contributions to the nonprofits are tax-deductible, among other benefits.

"The benefits of contributing to the CFC are the same as contributing to any charity organization," Workman said. "You're doing something good to help someone or something."

Another reason to contribute is to help meet the base-wide goal of $185,000.

"Once you find a cause you are passionate about, I am asking you to consider a generous contribution through the CFC either by cash, check or payroll deduction," said Shirley Bealer, 2013 Northwest Louisiana CFC chairman in a letter to federal employees. "Every gift, large or small, is critical to many of these nonprofits."

Participation in the campaign is voluntary and unit supervisors may not solicit from their subordinates, establish donation quotas or develop lists to identify people who choose not to donate. Furthermore, donors have the option to make their contribution anonymously.

Lists of CFC charities can be found in the CFC booklet, "Give For Good," which can be obtained from each unit's campaign representative.

For more about donating through the CFC, contact Maj. Mary Workman at 456-6300 or visit www.opm.gov/combined-federal-campaign.