LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
A strong finish in the final week lifted the annual Lackland Air Force Assistance Fund campaign beyond its fundraising goal.
By the end of the six-week fundraiser on May 6, $269,363 had been raised for the four charitable affiliates under the AFAF umbrella. With contributions still coming in, the final total exceeds the campaign goal of $267,819.
"Week Six was a stellar week," said Senior Master Sgt. Clarence Brown, Lackland installation campaign project officer. "To date (for that week), we've collected over $65,000. That's nearly 25 percent of our (total) contributions compared to the 16 percent average over the (previous two weeks).
"It was an astounding week."
Sergeant Brown said base leadership played a key role in the campaign's success by allowing unit project officers to heighten awareness in commander's calls and through the 802nd Mission Support Group's electronic daily bulletin.
The campaign overcame the threat of a possible government shutdown, along with rising gasoline prices and a weak economy, which slowed contributions at times. However, Lackland Airmen stepped up in the end with the exceptionally strong finish to push contributions over the top.
"I believe (those things) had some bearing," Sergeant Brown said about the possible government shutdown, rising gas prices and the weak economy. "I'm proud of the overall progress we made in the six-week time period."
Contributions by more than 4,300 at Lackland to the "A Commitment to Caring" campaign will help support the Air Force Aid Society, Air Force Villages, Inc., Air Force Enlisted Village, Inc., and the Gen. and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation.
AFAF was established as an annual effort to raise monies for the fund's affiliates. Air Force active duty, retirees, Reservists, Guard and their dependents, including surviving spouses, can apply for assistance.
The four charitable affiliates and their assistance areas are:
- The Air Force Aid Society provides emergency assistance to Airmen and their families, and sponsors education and quality of life programs in communities.
- The Air Force Enlisted Village provides homes for surviving spouses of retired enlisted Airmen.
- Air Force Villages, a retirement community, cares for retired Air Force officer widows who need financial assistance.
- The LeMay Foundation awards grants to retired Airmen and their spouses in financial need.