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Twentynine Palms, California
Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center
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Ramon L. Vargas-Ortiz, administration specialist, G-1 Adjutant’s Office, receives an award for his work towards the Combined Federal Campaign presented by Combat Center Sergeant Major, Sgt. Maj. Karl Villalino, during the CFC kickoff lunch, Sept. 1, 2015. (Official Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Levi Schultz/Released)

Photo by Lance Cpl. Levi Schultz

CFC kickoff lunch held at Hashmark’s SNCO club

2 Sep 2015 | Lance Cpl. Levi Schultz Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms

The Combined Federal Campaign held its kickoff lunch at the Hashmark’s Staff Non-commissioned Officer’s Club, September 1, 2015.

The CFC is the only authorized solicitation of federal employees in the workplace from approved local, national and international charity organizations. During the kickoff lunch, the unit representatives received information on the campaign and discussed this year’s goals.

“Established in 1961, the CFC has grown to be the single, largest charitable event in the world,” said Ramon L. Vargas-Ortiz, administration specialist, G-1 Adjutant’s Office. “The annual fundraising campaign helps to support a variety of health and human services provided by thousands of charitable agencies.”

Beginning in 2014, donors could make a pledge to any of approximately 22,000 charities that were approved to participate in their respective CFC regions. Last year, the Combat Center raised more than $140,000 in support of the campaign.

“The CFC is important because your gift may improve the quality of life for you or your neighbors,” Vargas-Ortiz said. “You may have to access one of the thousands of vital health and social services not supplied, or only partially covered, by government sources.”

Events such as the CFC golf tournament to be held at the Desert Winds Golf Course, November 6, and the 5k Fun Run to be held at the Obstacle Course, December 11, are held throughout the campaign to promote participation.

“With so many charities to choose from, find something close to your heart,” said Beverly Caires, manager, Southern California CFC. “There are so many charities that rely on community involvement, so the program is not only for others but also for our families and ourselves.”

During the lunch, units that met the criteria for the campaign last fiscal year received bronze and gold awards. Robert E. Bush Naval Hospital and Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group received the bronze award for meeting either 50 to 60 percent participation or averaging 50 to 65 dollars per person. The gold award went to 23rd Dental Company for 70 to 80 percent participation or averaging 80 to 100 dollars per person.

“During CFC 2014, we experienced a 42-percent increase in the total amount raised in donations aboard the Combat Center,” Vargas-Ortiz said. “With everyone’s support, I am sure that we can top last year’s total. With thousands of charities available, I am confident that people will be able to find a non-profit organization they would want to support.”

Combat Center Commanding General Maj. Gen. Lewis A. Craparotta thanked the representatives for their hard work to ensure the program is a success. The representatives have set a goal for the program, looking to raise 150,000 dollars in donations.

“The CFC gives everyone an opportunity to reflect on how we, federal government employees, are afforded benefits and securities that many people do not have,” Vargas-Ortiz said. “It is the perfect opportunity to support charities and organizations that provide assistance to people in need.”
Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms