JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The 2009 Combined Federal Campaign of the National Capital Region kicked off here with separate ceremonies for the Air Force District of Washington, 316th Wing, 89th Airlift Wing, Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the National Guard Bureau's Air Staff this week.
"The NCR is the largest contributor in all of the CFC," said Senior Master Sgt. Aaron Luethe, 89 AW coordinator. "And, our units here are the top four Air Force contributors within the area. That's huge!"
The 2008 campaign raised more than $62.7 million in pledges to thousands of local, national and international charities.
"Last year, it was a challenge meeting our goal because the campaign kicked off just as the economic downturn started," said Maj. Tony Faaborg, coordinator for the NGB's air staff. "But, with the kindness and support of our people, all of our units made their goal."
While there is an equally challenging goal for financial contributions this year, "I have no doubt that (Joint Team Andrews) will be just as generous this year, and I'm confident we'll meet our goals," he said.
The campaign is one of the most important sources of revenue for the 4,000-plus charities participating in the local campaign this year, Sergeant Luethe said.
"Individually, we get to choose the charities we give to, the amount we give to each of them and the method of giving," he said.
People can choose to give by cash, check or payroll deduction.
Payroll deduction pledges provide a steady income to these charities throughout the year, Sergeant Luethe said.
"These charities provide services to every part of our community and touch every one of our lives," he said.
The Andrews organization with the most contributors is AFDW, which includes the 316 WG, 11th Wing and 779th Medical Wing.
Every organization on Andrews will have key workers who will visit work centers and ensure everyone has an opportunity to donate to their chosen charity.
"Your participation means that people in your community, across the nation and around the world will have access to life-saving services and life-enriching opportunities," Sergeant Luethe said. "Thank you for your spirit of public service."
The local campaign runs through Nov. 13.