Minot's AFAF kicks off

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Danny Monahan
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The Air Force Assistance Fund campaign begins here March 26.

The campaign, themed "Commitment to Caring," runs until May 6 with a goal to raise $65,342.

Minot Air Force Base exceeded last year's goal of $65,000, by raising more than $100,000. Goals are assigned by the Air Force Personnel Center and based on the total military population.

"The Air Force Assistance Fund is important to all Airmen because it's about taking care of our own," said Capt. Kimberlie Thompson, 5th Bomb Wing AFAF representative.

AFAF contributions go to the Air Force Village Foundation, the Air Force Aid Society, the General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation and the Air Force Enlisted Village. The organizations help Airmen with financial aid in emergency situations, secure a retirement home for widows or widowers of Air Force members and more.

"The Air Force Assistance Fund is all about Airmen helping Airmen," said 1st Lt. Jeffrey Hensley, 91st Space Wing AFAF project officer. "Each of the four Air Force Assistance Fund-related agencies support the Air Force as a whole. Contributions help fund vital emergency and community support services that have benefited the Air Force community for more than 60 years."

Each unit has an AFAF representative and their goal is to contact 100 percent of Minot's Airmen, including those deployed or serving a temporary duty assignment.

Military members are the only individuals unit AFAF representatives will actively solicit. However, civilians, retirees and family members are welcomed to participate.

"Many Airmen don't know the benefits that are out there for them, and the representatives will ensure they are informed," said Captain Thompson. "We are going to try to increase this year's campaign participation by educating Airmen on what the charities give back to the community and military members."

There is no set limit as to what people can donate to the AFAF.

"Every little bit counts regardless of the amount," said Captain Thompson. "Our goal is to have 50 percent of base members participate to help meet our goal.

"The Air Force Aid Society provides a $2,500 cash award to each base that meets its monetary goal and has a 50-percent participation rate. That award can be used for community improvement throughout the base, such as playgrounds, parks or other morale-related projects."

For more information, contact a unit representative or visit http://www.afassistancefund.org/.