Pledges can be made during the campaign season which began Sept. 1 and lasts through Dec. 15.

Unit CFC representatives want to increase awareness and participation of the campaign by educating service members about the various organizations involved, said Maj. Alan T. Young, CFC action officer, Camp Pendleton.

“Last year was tough, but we are ensuring this year that everyone will be aware of the campaign and have the opportunity to donate,” he added.

The CFC is the world’s largest annual workplace charity campaign and the only one authorized to solicit and collect contributions from federal employees in the workplace on behalf of charitable organizations.

Nearly four million service members and federal civilian employees raise millions of dollars for national and international charitable organizations of their choice each year, according to the CFC Web site www.opm.gov/cfc.

Each of the more than 2,600 organizations, ranging from advocacy groups to international aid organizations, must go through an extensive review of their financial and governance practices prior to acceptance to ensure they make the best of their donations, the site explained.

Even in the tough economy, the CFC was able to raise more than $3.62 million across the Department of Defense last year, Young said.

“Times are tough, but for many of us, we are in a good position because we have job security as service members. With the tough times, it is probably more important than ever to give because many charities are receiving less money because of the economy,” he added.

Donations can be as little as $1 per month and can be taken through salary allotments or in one lump sum.

Whether its their generous nature, religious upbringing or passion about a cause, donating will help you feel you are making a difference for the community, he said.

Service members and federal employees interested in donating can contact the assigned CFC representatives in their unit. Also, for more information, visit www.cfc-sandiego.org.