The CFC, established in 1961 by Pres. John F. Kennedy, is an annual workplace campaign that raises millions of dollars each year in support of various charities around the world.

"As Americans, we are blessed to live in a great country. It is the many sacrifices of Marines, sailors and their families that make this country so great," said Brig Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese, commanding general of Marine Corps Installations West, Marines Corps Base Camp Pendleton. "Marines are generous by nature and giving to the CFC is a perfect example of their selfless nature. By donating to the CFC, all Marines and sailors have an opportunity to take care of each other."

During recent years, tough financial times have affected charity contributions from Camp Pendleton's federal employees, said Nathan Bell, fund raising coordinator for Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

In 2011, the CFC generated 272.7 million dollars in contributions, Camp Pendleton accounted for approximately 860 thousand dollars of that.

"There is no monetary goal that we set," said Bell. "Our only goal is 100 percent contact (with potential donors)."

Donors have the freedom to contribute to any one of the more than 2,500 charity organizations offered in the campaign and are not limited to the amount of charities that they choose to donate to.

"With so many charities available, there is undoubtedly something for everybody," Bell said.

The Breast Cancer Relief Foundation, the Wounded Warrior Project, the American Heart Association and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) are among participating charities, said Maj. Stephen F. Wildt, the CFC action officer for Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

"Every Marine should give to a charity," said Wildt. "We encourage everyone to participate and help make this a successful year for all the charities during these challenging times."

The campaign season begins Sept. 1 and concludes Dec. 15. For more information contact your unit CFC campaign coordinator.