FORT BELVOIR, Va. –
Just $100 will shelter a homeless child for two weeks. Another $60 will train 20 individuals to prepare for community risks and disasters. And $120 will spark four young girls’ interest in science, technology, engineering and math by giving them a chance to meet leaders in STEM fields.
Those are just a few of the possible outcomes of the Combined Federal Campaign, a CFC representative from the Office of the Secretary of Defense told McNamara Headquarters Complex employees during a CFC kickoff Oct. 24.
“You may ask, ‘What’s the big deal about CFC?’ Your contributions and volunteerism could change lives and make a true difference,” Dai Nguyen said.
The goal for DLA employees who work in the national capital area remains steady at $300,000 for the third consecutive year. Employees surpassed the goal in 2022, raising almost $317,000 and 135 hours of volunteer time.
This year’s theme is Give Happy.
“When we donate to a worthy charity, we spread happiness and help others, and that brings happiness to ourselves,” said DLA Director Navy Vice Adm. Michelle Skubic.
CFC is the world’s largest, most successful workplace charity campaign, giving employees over 8,000 vetted charities to choose from.
“There are causes that will certainly resonate with each and every one of you in personal ways. And seriously, no donation is too small,” Skubic said, citing inflation, food insecurity and geopolitical dynamics as factors increasing individuals’ need for help.
Nguyen reminded employees of the blessings in their lives and cited a quote from Winston Churchill: We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.
“Most of us do not struggle with putting food on the table. We have health care, clean water and warm places to stay,” she said, adding that charitable giving helps individuals in crisis and also paves the way for things like walking trails and youth sporting events that improve the quality of everyday life.
Federal employees have raised $8.7 billion through CFC since 1961. Of the nearly $73 million raised in 2022, $35 million came from employees in the national capital region. Those in the HQC, which includes several field activities in addition to DLA, raised half a million collectively.
Employees can donate by credit card or payroll deduction on a one-time or reoccurring basis at GiveCFC.org, the CFC Giving Mobile App on their cell phone or by texting “DONATE” to 978-487-5678. All options are secure and allow users to search for specific charities or view a list of organizations that support specific categories by location. A hand icon appears next to charities needing volunteers.
Each week through the campaign will be dedicated to raising awareness for causes like ending hunger, environmental protection and human rights. For more information, go to GiveCFC.org or contact a keyworker in your directorate.