Annual CFC drive ready for launch Published Sept. 25, 2008 By Micah Garbarino Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- Anyone who has been in the Air Force, or any federal workplace for at least a year, has heard about the Combined Federal Campaign, a program designed to allow employees to contribute to charities. The annual event runs nationwide from Sept. 1 to Dec. 15. Tinker's campaign will begin Oct. 1 and runs to Nov. 14. There is an "early bird" competition that recognizes organizations that meet their goal ahead of schedule, the cut-off date for that is Oct. 17. "This is the easiest way for people to contribute without making a huge dent in their lifestyle. Just a few dollars a pay period will help hundreds of thousands of people around the world," said Col. Tracy Tynan, Tinker's CFC coordinator. There are over 2,500 different agencies employees can donate to, local, national and international, including recent Hurricane evacuees, said Colonel Tynan. See related story on page 16. "Someday you, or someone you know, may be in need of the help that is supported by your donations today. If you don't support them today, they may not be around when you need them," said Colonel Tynan. Individual organizations also set yearly goals. This year's goal for contributions from Team Tinker is $1.65 million. The goal for central Oklahoma is $3.125 million. To accomplish this goal, the program utilizes employees who volunteer. These unit keyworkers are responsible for making sure everyone has an opportunity to participate in the program. They provide materials and information on how to donate. They also collect any donations or pledge cards and give them to the CFC coordinators. "All keyworkers have been through a fairly extensive training so they will be able to answer any questions," said Colonel Tynan. CFC donations can be in cash, check or deducted automatically from a paycheck. There will be an Early Bird Breakfast on Nov. 14 and a Gala on Jan. 23.