CFC kicks off soon Published Sept. 25, 2007 By 2nd Lt. Jonathan D. Simmons 21st Space Wing Public Affairs PETERSON AFB, Colo. -- "Red Cross Responds to Tragic Bridge Collapse," "Church Opens Doors as Shelter." These are just some of the disaster response headlines seen in recent months. Do you ever wonder if there's a way you can help? There is a way. The Air Force Combined Federal Campaign for the Pikes Peak region kicks off Oct. 2, with festivities at the U.S. Air Force Academy. The campaign continues until Nov. 13. The CFC is that once-per-year opportunity for charities to present a chance for Airmen and other government employees to get involved with helping their fellow man. "It's all about connecting people to their values, beliefs and to other people," said Ms. Barbara Fitz, CFC Pikes Peak region director. With more than 2,500 charities to choose from, this year, there's something for nearly every category of values, beliefs and people. One common misconception about the CFC is that people give "to" the CFC. The truth is that people give "through" the CFC. The CFC is merely a vehicle for people to give to the specific charities of their choice, without giving to those they don't support. "There are literally thousands of organizations this year: medical, environmental, animal, military, local and international," said Capt. Erin Hancock, CFC project officer for Peterson. One of the good things about CFC is that it all comes back to you. "Almost all of us have already been affected by CFC if you or your children have ever been in the Boy Scouts or Girls Scouts, if you've ever taken a Red Cross CPR class, if your children use the YMCA or even the base Child Development Center," Captain Hancock said. "What's the right-sized gift?" some may ask. While there is no "right-sized gift," the average workplace CFC donation is one hour's pay per month. That means for those who earn $10 per hour the average CFC gift would be $120 for the year. Some give more, some give less. That comes out to two minutes pay per day. And what a difference two minutes can make. Last year the wing raised nearly a quarter million dollars. "It's not only about raising dollars," said Ms. Fitz. "It's about affecting lives." To ensure your gift affects as many lives as possible, charitable organizations that participate in the CFC are reviewed for good standing with the IRS and their operating percentages are indicated in the Charity Listing Brochure (available from your unit keyworkers), so you can give with maximum confidence. Workers can do payroll deductions or write a check to contribute. "Each unit has at least one unit project officer and larger units have several keyworkers," she said. "They've already gone through extensive training and will be contacting you soon with information about what CFC really is. They'll explain the organizations in the brochure, how to fill out the donor card, and how a payroll deduction will work." CFC is another opportunity to be a good wingman. For information, or to locate your keyworker, contact Captain Hancock at 474-3926.