Great Falls military, community leaders meet for CFC kickoff luncheon

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Emerald Ralston
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  About 50 people attended the Combined Federal Campaign kick-off luncheon at the Montana Air National Guard Base Oct. 1. Including representatives from many local agencies as well as Malmstrom and MANG top leaders.
 
The theme of this year's CFC is "be a star in someone's life" and focuses on helping people and reaching out to not only the community, but agencies all around the world. The luncheon featured several comments from key players in the CFC. 

"The CFC is an important program," said Col. Michael Fortney, 341st Missile Wing commander. "Of the nearly 30 years I've been in, I've been contributing to the CFC almost the entire time. It's great to give back and a great opportunity to help not only the community, the state or the nation, but all around the world." 

Col. Michael McDonald, MANG commander, spoke about the importance of the campaign as well, citing the difficulties that make some people simply overlook the entire program. 

"One of the challenges is getting people inspired about the program," he said. "We are in tough economic times and there are thousands of charities to donate to. Between the two, people get overwhelmed. The main thing is to get people to find out what charities contribute to the things they really care about. I encourage people to research and go to Web sites to find something that impacts what they care about." 

Other key speakers included representatives from the United States Postal Service.
Tanna Zbinden, from the Great Falls USPS, spoke about the "Day of Caring," an event where volunteers help elderly people with minor household tasks and other things to help them prepare for the winter all around Great Falls. 

"The 'Day of Caring' helps Senior citizens with tasks we take for granted," she said. "The event is very rewarding." 

The "Day of Caring" is held in conjunction with the CFC to give people an opportunity to donate their time and efforts if they are unable to donate money. 

Eric Berger from the Great Falls Rescue Mission also spoke to the significance of the CFC, and how, while people may not realize it, donating to the CFC has an observable local impact in the areas that need it most. 

"At the rescue mission we reach out to needy and hurting people through food, spiritual education and shelter," he said. "A lot of people have preconceived notions of homeless people in Great Falls, but not everyone fits the idea some people have about them. We have entire families, high school students, drug addicts - a very diverse group of people who are reaching out for help. People have the opportunity to help change lives right here in Great Falls. Many organizations in the CFC contribute to organizations such as the Rescue Mission. When you donate funds it can impact a single life, but that life can impact future generations by breaking the cycle. Lives do change." 

Following the speakers, Gary Owen, a United Way representative, presented plaques to Colonel McDonald and Colonel Fortney for their efforts in supporting the CFC. 

Also in attendance were representatives from the United Way, United States Postal Service, Great Falls Center for Mental Health, Great Falls Rescue Mission, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Catholic Social Services, Great Falls Food Bank and the Missoula Children's theater, 

Malmstrom's goal this year is to raise $95,000 for the CFC. Last year's goal was set at $93,000 and Team Malmstrom exceeded that by raising $97,500. To donate, people can contact their squadron representatives through Nov. 12.