CFC kicks off with base-wide celebration

Published Sept. 18, 2009
By Carl Bergquist
Air University Public Affairs

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Before a crowd of more than 150 base members and employees and community federal employees, the Heart of Alabama Combined Federal Campaign kicked off its 2009 campaign at the Maxwell Officers' Club, on Monday.

According to the organization's Web site, the mission of CFC is to promote and support philanthropy through a program that is employee focused, cost-efficient, and effective in providing all federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all. Starting this year, the Heart of Alabama CFC now represents 24 counties in Central Alabama, an increase over 16 counties in past campaigns.

Col. Christopher Sharpe, 42nd Air Base Wing vice commander, said the event was, "a great opportunity to get a great event started off on the right foot," and he welcomed all who attended the kick-off saying the Heart of Alabama CFC program is very efficient.

"Maxwell-Gunter does this better than anywhere I've been," he said. "We have a goal of $840,000 this year, and I know we will exceed that. Despite the recession, I know we will dig deep in our pockets for the support CFC needs. CFC organizations do great things with the money you donate, and in this economy that is as important as it has ever been."
The colonel said a lot of people "right here in our own community" will benefit from CFC, and as disasters happen around the world, those affected, "lean on the United States" for help.

"Don't even think that if you don't do it someone else will," Colonel Sharpe said.

Xavier "Lew" Lewis, CFC director, said Maxwell-Gunter is an important part of the Heart of Alabama with the base contributing about 55 percent of the work force for the campaign.

"We receive tremendous support from base members and leadership, and that is always appreciated," he said. "I anticipate yet another fantastic campaign. I like to say we know we are in a recession, but we refuse to participate in it."

Capt. Clarence Anderson, who is the CFC installation point of contact for Maxwell-Gunter and "bills" himself as an "amateur comedian," combined his message about CFC with a comedy routine. He opened his "act" by playing the Beatles song, "Come Together," then told the audience the only way to make things happen for CFC is to, "come together."

"This presentation is a comedy routine and laughter is required. I mean, this is free comedy. No one is paying for these jokes," the captain joked with the audience. "And, what does this have to do with CFC? Absolutely nothing, but it does help me get my message out."

He said music is great because it takes people back to specific times and places, and the next song would take everyone back to the 1980s. He then played "Thank You for Being a Friend."

"As you hear this song, know that the money you give to CFC will help the people who receive it say the words, 'thank you for being a friend,'" Captain Anderson said. "Thank you for your time, and give to CFC."

After presentation of 16 door prizes and two grand prizes, Master Sgt. Stacey Mercer, commandant of the 42nd ABW Airman Leadership School who served as master of ceremonies for the kick-off, said CFC is all about people.

"We have all had a great time here this morning, so don't forget to give, give, give," he said. "To quote Tom Brokaw, 'Anybody can make a buck, but it is a whole lot harder to make a difference.'"

On final notes, Colonel Sharpe said he had no doubt in his mind that with the support of everyone in the room and Lew Lewis, CFC would exceed its goal for this year, and Mr. Lewis noted it is the volunteers that make the difference.

"Our thanks go out to our campaign volunteers. Thanks for serving and thanks for making a difference," Mr. Lewis said. "You are more than just fundraisers. Your services impact lives and communities."