Gov. Gregoire kicks off 2008 Washington Combined Fund Drive

For Immediate Release: September 15, 2008

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today kicked off the 24th annual Combined Fund Drive (CFD) campaign, one of the nation�s most successful state-run charitable-giving programs.

�Washington state employees know the importance of giving back, and I am inspired by their generosity,� Gregoire said. �Small or large, every donation changes lives in communities here and across the country. Whether by supporting outstanding youth programs, food banks, habitat restoration efforts, the elderly, the arts, or countless other programs, our state employees open their wallets and their hearts to those in need.�

The 2007 campaign marked the third year in a row where state employees pledged more than $5.5 million to help local, national and international causes. This outpouring of generosity helped bring the 23-year cumulative campaign total to more than $84 million.

In addition to being a leader in pledged donations, the CFD is blazing the trail in developing technology to increase the program�s efficiency and ease of operation.

�This year�s launch of the CFD�s new online giving tool is the most significant technological advancement in CFD history,� said Tom Haines, the drive�s chairman. �This seamless system is one-of-a-kind in public workplace giving programs and makes it easier for donors to give. Employees can search for their favorite charity by using up to three different criteria at one time. Donating through the CFD is a secure and efficient way for public employees and retirees to donate to their favorite charities.�

Through the CFD�s many features, including the new online giving tool, Washington public employees and retirees have access to more than 2,300 charities.

The Combined Fund Drive is located in the Washington State Department of Personnel. For more information, call 360-664-1993 or visit the CFD Web site at www.cfd.wa.gov.