CFC-O presents Ramstein units with big funds for FSYP

by Staff Sgt. Travis Edwards
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs


The Combined Federal Campaign-Overseas presented U.S. Air Forces in Europe with more than $81,000 in funds to be used toward the Family Support and Youth Program here Monday.

A portion of the funds presented to USAFE will go to the FSYP at the 86th Airlift Wing in the sum of $21,950.03.

“It is amazing to see our 86th warriors contribute so much toward such a great cause,” said Brig. Gen. Mark Dillon, 86th Airlift Wing commander. “The quality of life for Ramstein Airmen and their families is second to none — a large part of that is because the people of our community continually give back.”

From procuring a van for traveling sports teams to getting temporary equipment for Airmen making a permanent change of station, the donations to the FSYP helps commanders improve Airmen and their families’ lifestyle wherever they go.
“This is the moment to celebrate success and the generosity of others,” said Samantha Barrett, CFC-O campaign coordinator. “This is also an opportunity to ensure leadership support for the campaign.”

The funds for the FSYP come from 100 percent of members’ CFC contributions, and according to the CFC-O, there are no overhead costs associated; what goes into the program is returned fully.

 “When people are asked to give, give generously,” Barrett said. “The need is great.”

The FSYP is a program dedicated to improving the quality of life for family member and youth programs. The local commander will then appropriate the funds as he deems necessary and in accordance with regulations.

In 2010 alone, there were more than 82,000 contributors who together opened their wallets and bank accounts to donate almost $14 million to 2,427 different charities approved by the CFC-O.

According to the FSYP official explanation, FSYP receives funding from two sources. The first is when a contributor decides to donate directly to the program. This donation is designated in the “FSYP” block on the pledge form. The other way is through undesignated contributions. 

It continued to say that sometimes, a donor chooses not to designate a charity on his or her pledge form. All of these undesignated funds go into a large pot, and at the end of the campaign the pot (up to 6 percent of the total campaign revenue) is divided equally among the participating overseas installations as a part of FSYP funds.