AFAF underway Published March 31, 2015 By Senior Airman William J. Blankenship 42nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Maxwell and Gunter Airmen have already donated more than 70 percent, or more than $54,000, of the installation goal for this year's Air Force Assistance Fund Campaign. Airmen have until April 10 to cover the remaining 30 percent of the goal of $75,026. "I feel people should donate because they care about their Air Force family," said Master Sgt. Eric Gunter, Maxwell-Gunter's AFAF assistant project officer. "From my short time here, I have seen firsthand the tremendous amount of giving when it comes to taking care of our Airmen. Whether it's base morale events, key spouses, chapel services, or other programs, they all have reflected a genuine sense of caring for our community. The AFAF is an amazing program that gives our military members, active and retired, peace of mind in knowing that if they are ever in need, we will always be there to take care of them." The money raised will be used to financially assist Airmen through the Air Force Aid Society, the Lemay Foundation, Air Force Villages and Air Force Enlisted Village. Contributions to the AFAF will give critical support to active-duty and retired officers and enlisted. Each of the supported charities offers different types of assistance, from emergency needs, educational assistance, family support and support to Air Force widows and widowers. "Get with your unit project officer if you would like to contribute," said 1st Lt. Kebin Umodu, Maxwell-Gunter's AFAF installation project officer. "Let's make this campaign the best yet." Donations can be made by cash, check, money order or payroll deduction. "Being at over 70 percent right now is a great accomplishment that would not have been possible without the hard work from our unit project officers, key workers out in the field campaigning and the amazing spirit of giving displayed throughout the Maxwell-Gunter community," said Gunter. "Based on the generous giving thus far, I am confident we are well on our way to surpassing our goal." Stories from some of those who have been helped through AFAF can be seen at https://www.afassistancefund.org/index.php/shared-stories/.