CFC: What's it really about? Published Oct. 24, 2012 By 2nd Lt. Alicia Wallace 45th Space Wing Public Affairs PATRICK AFB, Fla. -- Every year, we are encouraged to give to the CFC. Many of us believe we know what CFC is really about, but do we really know? The CFC began in the early 1960's. It started as a way to coordinate the fundraising efforts of various charitable organizations so that Federal employee donors would only be solicited once a year in the workplace and be afforded the opportunity to make contributions through payroll deduction. Because of the CFC, we only get solicited to once a year! The CFC is comprised of 187 local campaigns. The local campaigns organize the annual fund raising effort in Federal workplaces both in the United States and abroad. Additionally, the local campaigns assist with screening charities that apply to participate according to specific eligibility requirements. As noted on the official CFC website, charities that apply to receive funds through the CFC are required to submit to extensive review of their financial and governance practices prior to acceptance. The CFC also goes a step further by laying out the overhead cost, so you know exactly how much of your contributions are going to the causes the charities support. With thousands of charities to choose from, the CFC is the perfect avenue for anyone to give to a cause that really touches them. I personally give to the diabetes foundations because my sister has diabetes, and I know that my contributions will bring her one step closer to being cured. Everyone has their own special reason for giving. "I have a 5-year-old and a 2-year-old. It breaks my heart if my son is upset about not having a friend on the playground to play with, said Captain Jonathan Ball, from the 45th Space Wing Judge Advocate Office. " So, when I think about the kids who don't have food, who might be wondering, 'Am I going to eat today?,' it really puts things in perspective. I realize that many aren't as truly blessed as we are. That's why I give to organizations that feed hungry kids," he said. Donating to the CFC is fast and easy. All of us can do our part. "I donate to CFC regularly because with just a little each pay period, you end up making a large impact for the good of others," said Mr. Lawrence Hornback, 45 FSS, Community Services Flight Chief. Now go out there and give!