Combined Federal Campaign kicks off Published Oct. 1, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Brittany A. Chase 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- The 2013 Combined Federal Campaign kicked off in the Gunfighter Service Center ballroom, Sept. 30. The mission of the CFC is to promote and support philanthropy through a program that is employee focused, cost-efficient and effective in providing all federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all. "The CFC provides Federal Employees with the opportunity to give to charities that support nationwide or local cause dedicated to helping those less fortunate, finding cures for diseases and/or supporting our wounded warriors," said Col. Chris Short, 366 Fighter Wing commander. "With more than 3,000 different charities, I encourage each of you to find one that suits you and continue to provide that charitable donation support." The base's goal is $115,000 by Nov. 8 - $5,000 more than the 2012 goal. The CFC was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, which continually grew over the years to the more than 3,300 local, national and international charities benefiting from the contributions. "It is important to donate to these charities because without our continued support they could not do the work they do," said Master Sgt. Yael J. Lawrence, CFC installation project officer. "In these past years this country has been faced with both financial and natural disasters, many of which have stepped in and provided whatever assistance they could." As the world's largest workplace donation drive, the contributions to the CFC provide charities with substantial income each year, helping them to plan and provide services to the community. "Many of us have a friend or family member impacted by the nation's current economic crisis; therefore every donation counts, no matter how big or small," said Short. "Our communities count on the Gunfighter team for support."