CFC Overseas prepares kick off

CAMP ARIFJAN, KUWAIT

09.28.2010

Story by Pfc. Daniel Rangel 

27th Public Affairs Detachment

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - Volunteer Service members began training for this year’s Combined Federal Campaign during sessions held Sept. 24 and 25 throughout bases in Kuwait.

The CFC Overseas orchestrates the annual charity campaign among federal employees working abroad. Federal employees may choose from thousands of charities to give to through the CFC Overseas.

“It’s all about personal choice. [Service members] can direct the funds to exactly the charity they want their money to go,” said Constance Baker, CFC Overseas deputy director.

This year’s CFC Overseas campaign begins Oct. 4 and runs through Dec. 3. Volunteers intend to ask every Servicemember overseas to make an informed decision.

“The number one reason someone gives to charity is because they were asked,” Baker said. “That is our mission. We want to give a 100 percent informed opportunity to give.”

CFC Overseas recruits vast amounts of volunteers; in fact, organizers hope to have one volunteer (or keyperson, as they are known in the organization) for every 20 service members.

Having so many volunteers ensures that each service members’ contact with the CFC Overseas is through someone they all ready know.

“It’s a personal transaction. We want to keep it personal,” Baker said.

Many volunteers are new to the CFC Overseas campaign but want to get involved with charity work.

“I’m motivated to help people in need and to contribute to a good cause,” said Capt. Sebastien Goillandeau, Third Army surgeon cell from Coahoma, Texas, who attended the training.

Some service members, such as Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Rene Barrrera, an administrative support specialist at Kuwait Naval Base, are more experienced.

“I’ve been involved with CFC before,” Barrera said. “It was great knowing how to touch peoples’ lives and knowing that every little bit helps no matter how small the contribution.”

Experienced or not, some volunteers are motivated to contribute to a good cause for very personal reasons.

“I participate because I have a Family member affected by Multiple Sclerosis,” said Staff Sgt. Lori Costello, an 1188 DDSB transportation control officer.

“I hope one day they find a cure,” she said.

• Date Taken: 09.28.2010
• Date Posted: 09.28.2010 00:43
• Story ID: 57100
• Location: CAMP ARIFJAN, KW