Members of 15 Wing gathered on Oct. 23 for the official launch of this year’s Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign (GCWCC), the base’s major annual fundraiser.
The GCWCC is a national donation campaign organized for federal public servants and retirees across Canada, encouraging them to pledge donations to various different charities.
Locally, 15 Wing uses the campaign to support groups like the Humane Society, Moose Jaw Transition House, and Moose Jaw Literacy Camps, but donations can be pledged to any of the affiliated 85,000 registered charities and health partners on the list.
The GCWCC collected $3 million in donations last year, all of which were administered by the United Way to organizations that help people in need.
Sgt. Kenny Rodgers, co-chair for this year’s campaign, is looking forward to seeing base members take part in the initiative. A large amount of support from local businesses makes the event possible, and it’s important to him to see 15 Wing give back.
“We're part of the Moose Jaw community, so therefore I feel as though we should support Moose Jaw as they've been supporting us throughout the past 50 or 60 years,” said Rodgers.
Members at 15 Wing take part every year, doing their share in adding to the nation’s donation total. Last year, 15 Wing raised $26,000 during the eight-week campaign, and the goal for this year is to top that number with $30,000 raised.
During the official launch, the first $1,300 was collected with a spirited bidding war for a unique opportunity: a chance to pie a commanding officer in the face. Wing Commander Ron Walker stepped up for the first round of whipped cream, followed by Chief Warrant Officer Marlene Shillingford, and a handful of others.
The campaign will continue over the next seven weeks, with a slew of activities planned to engage 15 Wing members and encourage donation.
From an ongoing hockey pool to weekly luncheons, a judged mustache contest, a curling bonspiel and more, members of 15 Wing will have plenty of chances to contribute to the campaign and make a difference in people’s lives.
The most recognizable aspect of the campaign will be the four days that Wing members spend bagging groceries at Safeway and Superstore. From Nov, 7-10, base personnel will again be returning to help the public with their grocery checkout, and those wanting to give them some support can give them a tip as a donation.
Taking part in the GCWCC is a unique chance for federal personnel to make a difference in their community, by supporting charities that support those in need.
During his remarks, Wing Commander Walker spoke of the importance of this campaign to 15 Wing.
“Helping charities is just an extension of what we do every day, by helping Canadians and being responsible for our people and the defence and security of the country,” said Walker.
“The GCWCC is a great initiative to raise funds to support our community, but it's also a great opportunity for us to bring together our community here at 15 Wing and with the city of Moose Jaw,” added Shillingford.
