Annual CFC drive coming to a close Published Dec. 12, 2013 OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- The end is in sight for the 2013 Combined Federal Campaign, so if you haven't signed up to participate already, time is quickly running out. The CFC allows military, federal and postal employees to donate to local, national and international charities of their choice. The theme for this year campaign is, "Serving our Country. Supporting our Community." So far this year the 55th Wing and its partner units, not including U.S. Strategic Command, have donated more than $184,000, which is 60% of its goal. "I know it's been a tough year for a lot of people within the Air Force and the 55th Wing, but if you haven't done so already I hope you will consider making a donation to the CFC," said Col. Gregory Guillot, 55th Wing commander. "I've seen what a difference our support makes for these charitable organizations, and we've all seen what the charitable organizations do for us and our community in turn," he added. "Our efforts will go a long way." The CFC was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy. It enables federal employees to donate to a charity from their paychecks, through their payroll system. "Several units are very close to making their goals, so we just need a final push to get us over the hump," said Maj. Iris Ortiz-Gonzalez, 55th Dental Squadron and one of the wing's CFC leads. "I would encourage everyone to do some research and find out how these organizations do so much in our communities." Ortiz-Gonzalez praised the units for making 100% contact and for their continued push as the wing presses forward to make their goal. "The CFC was shut down during the partial government shutdown, so I think that threw things off a bit," said Master Sgt. Marcie Ansell, 55th Strategic Communications Squadron and one of the wing's CFC leads. For more information about the CFC or to research charities, visit the Heart of the Midlands CFC website at http://www.heartofthemidlandscfc.org/_root/ or contact your unit representative. "It's very easy to give this year," Ansell added. "People can go online or fill out the traditional paper pledge form." To donate online, visit the CFC website at http://www.heartofthemidlandscfc.org/_root/ click Pledge Online, under Make a Pledge, click Register, and then follow the steps from there.