CFC, Race for Freedom to raise money for sanctioned charities

Published Sept. 7, 2007
By Brandice J. Armstrong
Tinker Air Force Base Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- It's nearly that time of the year.
   The Combined Federal Campaign, the only military-authorized solicited fund-raising activity, and the CFC Race for Freedom, are just around the corner, Oct. 4 and Sept. 15, respectively.
   This year, officials have set a goal of $1.65 million for the entire Central Oklahoma Military community and have said they hope to achieve this amount and more by the CFC program's close, Nov. 16.
   "Historically, our work force has been very generous and we believe they will be again this year; our workforce really cares about helping those in need," said Col. Tracy Tynan, Central Oklahoma Military lead for the 2008 CFC program. "Last year, Tinker and the greater military communities together significantly exceeded the $1.5 million goal."
   Fund-raising for the CFC is open to all military members and civilian personnel on base, as well as all central Oklahoma military-affiliated organizations.
   Local donations will help provide assistance to hundreds of acclaimed state and military activities.
   "The best thing about the CFC is its ability to give back to the community," Col. Tynan said. "And it gives everyone the chance to donate to a charity they know is a sanctioned charity."
   "Furthermore, donors can give to a CFC organization beyond the central Oklahoma region or in another state," Col. Tynan said.
   "It's one stop shopping from a charity perspective," he said. "You can serve the community that you live in, work in and play in; or you can reach a charity located in your home town or anywhere in the world."
   The CFC is a national and international fundraiser, which collectively has more than 300 programs raising money between Sept. 1 and Dec. 15.
   The annual CFC Race for Freedom, held near Lake Hefner in Oklahoma City, will provide an opportunity for the surrounding communities to learn about the CFC organization and get involved in this worthy cause.
   The race will take place west of Lake Hefner Parkway between West Hefner Road and West Britton Road. Distances include 5 kilometers and 10 km. Awards and medals will be given at the end of the race and all age groups are welcome. Runners can register online, by mail or in person. Remember to identify the organization from which you are affiliated, as a portion of each entry fee will count towards your organizational goal, thus helping the greater central Oklahoma military community reach its $1.65 million goal. The deadline to register is Sept. 15.
   For more information about CFC, go to http://www.cfc-centralok.org/index.php or call Col. Tynan at 739-5732. For more information on the Race for Freedom, go to www.raceforfreedom.org or call Thomas Burton, at the Federal Aviation Administration, at 954-0625.