CFC encourages to give back today ... pay it forward tomorrow

  • Published
  • By Cindy Holbrook
  • Skywrighter Staff Writer
FAIRBORN, Ohio --  Hundreds of volunteers, charities and dance crews joined together to kick off the 2010 Miami Valley Combined Federal Campaign at Wright State's Ervin J. Nutter Center on Wednesday, Oct. 6.

Last year the campaign brought in $3,084,700, exceeding its goal by 122 percent, the largest campaign in Miami Valley CFC's history, even larger than in 2001, which was right after the 9/11 tragedy and larger than in 2005, after Hurricane Katrina.

This year's goal is a steep $2.7 million, but Local Federal Coordinating Committee (LFCC) Chairman Guy B. Richardson, Medical Center Director, Department of Veteran's Affairs, Dayton, is optimistic.

"It's a tough goal amid the national economic challenge," he said. "But many people are just fortunate enough to be employed and there are still many who are willing to give back to the community. The community is coming together and supporting each other."

This year's theme is "Give back today...pay it forward tomorrow'' with the campaign beginning at the Nutter Center and running for six weeks through Nov. 17. Numerous events and fundraisers are planned throughout the six weeks.

"We want to raise close to three million this year; it's our largest goal ever," said Randy Parker, last year's LFCC chair, who is Vice Director, 88th Air Base Wing. "Last year (pledges) were $177,000 more than the previous year and exceeded our goal by 122 percent. I know we have great leadership to exceed our goal this year. The need is great in the Miami Valley and people know that."

The Nutter Center event drew a large crowd that paraded around the Agency Fair to different charities offering information and goodies and viewed a first-ever dance crew competition. There were more than 135 local, national and international charities present at the kickoff, which can be supported with a CFC contribution. Attendees enjoyed a free lunch and watching dance crews seeking votes, just like on Dancing with the Stars.

CFC was established by Executive Order in 1961 and is celebrating 49 years with the 2010 campaign. Miami Valley CFC was established 41 years ago. Over the years, DoD and Federal employees in the Miami Valley CFC have pledged nearly $80 million to CFC.

Last year, participation increased 1.5 percent, reversing a local and national downward trend.

The Office of Personnel Management recognized Miami Valley CFC's unprecedented campaign with their "Innovator Award." Five CFCs were recognized; this was Miami Valley CFC's first time receiving the award.