SJ exceeds CFC goal by more than $26,000

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Marissa Tucker
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Members of the 4th Fighter Wing showed their giving spirit as the Seymour Johnson community raised $216,552 for the 2010 Combined Federal Campaign drive.

The goal for the year was to raise $190,000, said Capt. Michael Ahl, assistant staff judge advocate and the company grade officer representative for the CFC campaign.

"The goal was 100 percent contact to make sure every person had an opportunity to donate," Captain Ahl said. "We exceeded our goal by more than $26,000."

The amount of money raised was a surprise to wing leadership, as the economy has had an adverse effect on many military members.

The CFC is the largest workplace charity campaign and was specifically designed for federal employees. Those donating to the CFC can chose from more than 2,700 charities, or have the option of specifying a specific charity and just giving to the fund.

This year, the campaign went to the Web, as Airmen and civilians were able to donate online for the first time. Twenty-five percent of Airmen and civilians here donated in this year's campaign, which came as no surprise to the organizers of the event as they agree that servicemembers are very active in charity and volunteer work.

"Giving back is such a wonderful feeling. Whether it's done through money or time, giving benefits the giver as well as the receiver," said Senior Master Sgt. Carmia Basker, 4th Fighter Wing Equal Opportunity superintendent and enlisted representative for the campaign here. "Airmen are naturally givers since we give ourselves in service of our country."

While many people donate, not everyone is able to see the impact their contributions have on the lives of others. Sergeant Basker was inspired to donate after she seen first-hand the benefits of charities.

"I had a friend who's son was diagnosed with a serious medical condition. Through assistance received from charitable donations she was able to stay in the Ronald McDonald House while he received treatment," Sergeant Basker said.

While the 2010 campaign is complete, Captain Ahl encourages Airmen and the base community to give in any way they can year round.

"Making the choice to give just that little bit extra is what developing character is all about," Captain Ahl said. "This success of this year's campaign is a testament to the character of our Airmen."