Donations raise nearly $100K for family, youth programs

ARNEWS ^ | Jun 6, 2006 | Arthur McQueen

[SandRat]

HEIDELBERG, Germany (Army News Service, June 6, 2006) – An increase in locally focused contributions from Soldiers and Department of Defense civilians to the Combined Federal Campaign Overseas will bring nearly $100,000 to family and youth programs in U.S. Army, Europe.

Brig. Gen. Rusty Frutiger, USAREUR deputy chief of staff for personnel, and Peter F. Sun, IMA-EURO chief of staff, received the $98,895 check, symbolizing the donations designated for Family Support and Youth Programs, from Renee Acosta, worldwide CFC campaign manager.

“The FSYP is unique to the CFC-O and is the only way to donate locally while overseas,” said Constance T. Baker, director of CFC-O, Europe, who also attended the presentation.

“This is one more great way to give back,” Frutiger said after accepting the check. “It’s all about people.”

According to Baker, members of the European Command donated $261,695 for the FSYP.

“Of course, these donations are tax deductible, just like all CFC donations,” she said.

Baker said all FSYP contributions reach the community, as no administrative costs are deducted.

“CFC-O contributors are very generous and attuned in their contributions. I am thrilled that they are making their overseas communities their home,” she said. “It’s like planting flowers for the next resident to enjoy (through their donations).”

The funds are distributed to the installation of origin, said Baker, and support quality of life programs as the local commander deems appropriate.

“We have seen purchases of uniforms for youth sports, building up of lending closets, and even the purchase of a vehicle to transport community groups – meeting whatever the local need might be,” she said.

(Editor’s note: Arthur McQueen writes for the U.S. Army, Europe, Public Affairs Office.)

[SandRat]

Military Family taking care of Military Family