The Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign (United Way) at CFB Comox was kicked off Sept. 18 by members of the Wing's organizing committee.
The annual fundraiser is an opportunity for 19 Wing members to contribute to the local community, while serving to build morale and teamwork.
Following on the heels of a successful 2012 United Way drive at CFB Comox, the 2013 campaign is led by Capt. Jeremy Maltais, an air combat systems operator with 442 Squadron, and Sgt. Cesar Esteban, an air traffic controller.
"To launch this year's event, we are putting together a barbecue with United Way representatives from across 19 Wing, beginning with welcoming words from the wing commander and finishing with the official raising of the United Way flag," said Capt. Maltais. "Of course, we get fantastic support from local businesses and organizations, too. For the barbecue, Quality Foods provided all the food free of charge."
The campaign was established by the Government of Canada, in conjunction with the United Way and health partners, as a way of co-ordinating all local federal departments in their fundraising initiatives.
"We will be helping 19 Wing squadrons and units organize fundraising activities throughout the campaign," said Esteban. "There are already a lot of great events planned for this year, including 19 Air Maintenance Squadron's traditional pancake breakfast, bake sales and some surprises that will really bring Wing members together."
For a small donation, military members will also be authorized to dress in civilian clothes on casual Fridays.
"The United Way drive is just one way that 19 Wing shows support for our local communities that we are so proud to be a part of," said Col. Jim Benninger, 19 Wing commander.
While 19 Wing members are committed to helping their communities throughout the year through volunteering, the importance of the Workplace Charitable Campaign cannot be understated given that many people in the Comox Valley are touched by at least one of the several organizations supported by the Comox Valley United Way.
— CFB Comox