Lakenheath surpasses CFC goal

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Torri Ingalsbe
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  A slow start, a quick finish and a record turnout were the hallmarks of the Liberty Warriors contribution to this year's Combined Federal Campaign. Volunteers across base flattered, coaxed and cajoled their way to $311,117 easily beating the base goal of $300,000. 

The campaign ran from Oct. 1 through Nov. 30, during a time when most Airmen on base were stretched to the limit with operations evaluations and unit inspections. Not surprisingly the base donations were slow to start. Rallying towards the base goal, RAF Lakenheath rose to the challenge in November, raising more than $185,000 in the last month of the campaign. 

"We still had a higher turnout from every single group this year, over $30,000 more than last year." said Capt. Benjamin Martin, CFC Community Project Officer. "When you consider the extra work our folks have been doing, I'm even more proud to be part of a team that always does a little bit more, even when everyone would be justified in pulling their hair out." 

Understanding the need to honor these volunteers, a CFC recognition program has been established to highlight those who worked hard to raise money for the campaign. Anyone can nominate a volunteer from their unit or group as a "CFC hero," someone who went above and beyond in giving of themselves for the campaign. 

"I think it's important to recognize the individuals who've consistently done extra, consistently given more of themselves," Captain Martin said. "The website (http://www.cfcoverseas.org/?HeroProgram) has more information on the CFC heroes program. Recognition shows we've been paying attention to the hard work people our people put in and it shows how much we care." 

Nominations for the awards can be accepted until Jan. 7. According to the CFC website, CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, with more than 300 CFC campaigns throughout the country and internationally to help to raise millions of dollars each year. Pledges made by Federal civilian, postal and military donors during the campaign season support eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world.