MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Nearly 350 runners and walkers took part in the 6th Annual Combined Federal Campaign 5K Fun Run, which started and finished outside the Goettge Memorial Field House here, Sep. 23.
The run served as a sort of belated kick-off for the 2005 CFC fund-raising drive in Onslow County and aboard Camp Lejeune and also served as a venue for the CFC to present donation opportunities.
“Our campaign runs from Sep. 19 through Oct. 28,” said Patricia Morin, coordinator for the CFC in Onslow County. “ The Fun Run is a great opportunity to promote awareness of the campaign and advertise the local organizations that accept donations.”
The CFC, which was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, is the world’s largest, most comprehensive workplace fund-raising campaign and raises millions of dollars each year.
Pledges and contributions made by Federal civilian employees, postal and military donors during the campaign season support eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world.
“Federal employees want to give, but don’t always know how,” said Morin. “The campaign makes it really easy. Once a year you come and sign up and forget about it. It’s really much more convenient and efficient.”
Another appealing aspect of the CFC is that it is a donor-designated campaign, which means you can choose exactly where your money goes and, with over 2,000 organizations to choose from, a supporter can give on a local, state, national or international level, according to Morin.
“It’s the one chance every year to make a difference with something you care about,” said Morin. “It’s a win-win situation for everyone.”
Contributions to the campaign can be made through cash, check or by payroll deduction, with minimum donations of $2 per month. Individuals interested in giving to the campaign can contact their unit coordinator or for more information call 347-2646.
“The people of Onslow County have been extremely generous in the past,” said Morin. “I’m sure this year will continue that trend.”