State Combined Charitable Campaign Aims for $3.8 Million

State employees asked to become “partners in giving”

A statehouse rally today served as the kickoff for the 2002 State Combined Charitable Campaign, which runs from September 4 through October 25.  The rally recognized the efforts of state employees in the 2001 campaign and encouraged them to continue those efforts in 2002. 

The Combined Charitable Campaign is state government’s primary charitable fundraising drive.  Through it, state employees have the opportunity to give to more than 2,000 charitable organizations through one-time donations and payroll deductions.  Overseeing this year’s campaign are co-chairmen Gary C. Suhadolnik, director of the Ohio Department of Commerce, and Hugh Williams, representing the Ohio Civil Service Employees Association.

"We can be proud that last year state employees came together during a time of national crisis to contribute more than $5 million toward charities worldwide,” said Governor Bob Taft.  “I am again asking employees to help those in need by becoming a 'partner in giving’,” referring to this year’s campaign theme, "Partners in Giving."

“When compared to other state governments of similar size, Ohio ranked number one last year in employee participation, dollars raised and per capita contributions,” Suhadolnik told the crowd.  “I am hoping state employees will count their blessings and again step forward to make Ohio number one again.”

The goal for this year is to raise $3.8 million, a 5% increase over last year’s goal of $3.6 million.  Employees designate charities that are part of 10 “federations.”  Last year, 52% went to Ohio United Ways and just over 11% went to the September 11^th Fund, a special federation available last year only.  The remainder went to the other nine federations. 

“One of the greatest things about the Ohio Combined Charitable Campaign is choice,” said Williams.  “With more than 2,000 organizations to choose from, employees can make a difference where it personally matters most.”

 

#          #          #