CFC benefits base youth center

  • Published
  • By Airman Wesley Wright
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The Combined Federal Campaign, which began Oct. 1 and will run until Nov. 15, helps many charitable organizations worldwide.

The CFC is the only authorized solicitation of employees in the federal workplace on behalf of charitable organizations. In 2005, federal employees around the world raised more than $268 million for charitable causes.

From that lump sum, the David C. Jones Youth Center receives about $4,000 per year and is the only Minot Air Force Base organization that receives funds from the CFC.

According to Ronda Knutson, director of youth programs, funds received from the CFC helps enhance the quality of life for kids at the youth center.

"There are numerous activities we hold that are largely sustained by CFC donations," said Ms. Knutson. "The supplies we use for our activity clubs allow us to offer them at no charge to the participants. During America's Kids Day and the Family Fun Fest, we are able to offer free food, and we have purchased supplies for our Base Easter Egg Hunt, Back to School Blowout, and Open House Party--all these events are free for our customers."


Contributions from the CFC also help offset youth center costs.

"We used to charge for many of our events in the past, but thanks too the CFC, we are able to offer many activities free of charge, or at least to offer reduced rates," she said.

The youth sports programs would suffer the most without the CFC, particularly baseball, said Ms. Knutson. The donated funds are used to purchase the team t-shirts and hats worn at games.

"We are very grateful for the donations we receive and are very pleased that patrons can specify their funds go directly to the Youth Activities Center on the CFC form." said Ms. Knutson.
"The funds are given right back to the community through benefits to the kids."

So far, Team Minot is right on track as servicemembers have generously contributed to the CFC, raising a grand total of $63,816.96, said Maj. Ramil Ascano, CFC alternate base project officer.

For more information on how you can contribute to the CFC, contact your unit campaign project officer or visit the CFC website at www.opm.gov/cfc.