This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Combined Federal Campaign-Overseas (CFC-O) which was founded by President John F. Kennedy in 1961. For the past several years, military and civilian personnel have raised money to help change the lives and bring relief to those in need both locally and abroad.

Last year CFC-O raised more $13.9 million, and to date the it has raised a total of $6,050,953.55. As part of this year's campaign to celebrate the 50th anniversary, contributors are eligible for one of two prizes: first prize $5,000, Series EE U.S. Saving Bond and second prize $3,000 Series EE U.S. Saving Bond. The goal this year is to get 100% participation from the command.

According to Maria Valdez-Carter, management services specialist for Joint Force Development and Readiness at U.S. Africa Command, contributing to the CFC-O is important, because it allows individuals to make a difference by contributing to local, national, and international organizations.

"There is an option where contributions can be made to the Family Support and Youth Program (FSYP)," said Valdez-Carter. "One hundred percent of the proceeds made to the FSYP will come back directly to the community with funding going to programs like child care, emergency assistance, support recreational activities and the improvement of facilities within the Stuttgart Community."

There are more than 2, 500 participating charities that individuals can choose from. These organizations have been verified by the Local Federal Coordinating Committee; therefore, contributors can be confident that their donations are going to the right place. In addition, the CFC provides an option for automatic payroll deduction, allowing one to donate as little as $5.00 during each pay period

The event runs from October 5 to December 2, 2011. Those interested in contributing can either get a pledge card from their unit coordinator or go to http://www.cfcoverseas.org/ to make a contribution. Cash and checks will also be accepted.

The following is a list of the representatives for each directorate:


â? CMG Group - Leslie Mehall

â? J03-COS-SS - Adam Gramarossa

â? J1/8 RES - Renate Cooke

â? J2 IKD - LCDR Hak Kim

â? J3/4 OPL - Jeremy Holz

â? J5 SPP - Freeman Nlandu

â? J6 C4S - Marko Njegovan

â? J7 JFD - Maria Valdez- Carter

â? J9 OTR - Crystal Eaddy

â? SOCAFRICA - TSgt Leonida Dotson

â? MARFORAF - Lt.Col. Tomas Carlos