The dedication and generosity of the federal community is on display every day. In addition to their service, federal employees and retirees in departments, agencies and installations around the world give together through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) to make even more of a difference for people and communities in need.
For more than 60 years, the CFC has been a proud federal tradition, a reflection of public service in its truest form. Together, the federal community has pledged more than $9 billion to help those in need locally, across the nation, and throughout the world.
Colin Huckins, a retired colonel in the United States Air Force summed up what this tradition has meant in his life: “I’ve been supporting the CFC my entire adult life. During my active-duty years, I was proud to give to the charities I cared about through the CFC. And now, as a retiree, it is easy to continue that tradition of giving.”
Over the years, these charities supported through the CFC have received generous contributions that helped them carry out their missions. Today, those same organizations continue to give back, offering critical aid, resources and support to the very communities and individuals who have stood by them. It’s a powerful reminder of how compassion and generosity come full circle when we need it most.
“One of the incredible aspects of the CFC is its scope of charitable causes. There is truly something for everyone, and each donor chooses which charities to support,” said Huckins. “I love that so many CFC-participating charities give back to the military community — supporting deployed service members, helping military families, and honoring veterans.”
The 2025 theme — Your gift. Their future. — embodies the essence of the CFC by featuring a pay-it-forward concept whereby the federal community’s combined actions create a better today and a more hopeful tomorrow. Through monetary and volunteer pledges, the CFC offers federal employees and retirees an opportunity to invest in the strength, security and self-reliance of their communities.
Last year alone, the federal community pledged $68.2 million through the CFC, including more than 82,000 hours of volunteer time, valued at $2.3 million. The retiree community represented more than 9% of that total, contributing over $6 million in 2024, about 17% more than the previous year.
After years of public service, or if you’re just beginning your federal career, giving through the CFC is easy, secure and flexible. Whether you choose a payroll or annuity deduction, credit card, bank transfer, or volunteer hours, every pledge helps build a more hopeful tomorrow. Even a small contribution — just $5 per paycheck or five volunteer hours a month — can make a life-changing difference when combined with the generosity of thousands of others.
This year, the CFC is proud to partner with America250, offering the federal community a meaningful way to commemorate our nation’s 250-year legacy of service. Volunteer hours pledged in the 2025 campaign will be fulfilled in 2026, the year of America’s Semiquincentennial, creating a record-setting year for giving back.
“In addition to giving monthly through the CFC, I have also enjoyed volunteering with some organizations in my local community,” said Huckins. “Whether distributing hot lunches in public parks, coaching a kid’s sports team, or collecting holiday gifts for children in need, volunteering really makes me realize how fortunate I am. I encourage anyone who is able to try volunteering.”
When you give through the CFC, you go beyond your call to public service. You become part of something greater, a movement of caring that strengthens communities and creates measurable, lasting impact in the lives of many.
Let’s continue that tradition together. Create a more hopeful tomorrow by giving today at GiveCFC.org.
This article is sponsored by the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC).
