Governor Gregoire Kicks Off 2006 Washington Combined Fund Drive

For Immediate Release: September 18, 2006

OLYMPIA �Governor Chris Gregoire today kicked off the 22nd annual Combined Fund Drive (CFD) campaign, one of the nation�s most successful state-run charitable giving programs.

�When Washington state employees give to charities through the Combined Fund Drive, they send a powerful message to all Washingtonians and the rest of the nation,� said Governor Gregoire, chair of the 2006 CFD Campaign. �In addition to being dedicated public servants, we care deeply about our communities, our state and our world.�

The 2005 campaign was the most successful since the beginning of the program. More than 21,000 public employees and retirees in Washington pledged over $5.6 million to 2,100 charities. This outpouring of generosity helped bring the 21-year cumulative CFD campaign total to over $74 million.

�Giving through the CFD is one of the highest yielding, lowest cost methods of fund raising,� said CFD program manager Randy Ryan. �With the support of thousands of volunteers who help run the campaign, the CFD allows charities to pour more energy and resources into strengthening our community.�

Through the CFD�s many resources, including the online giving station, Washington public employees and retirees have access to over 2,000 charities that support causes such as homeless shelters, the arts, the environment, youth programs and medical research. Donating through the CFD is a secure and efficient way for public employees and retirees to donate to their favorite charity.

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