It is time again for the employees of the Department of Administration to use their combined strength to reach out and provide a helping hand to the less fortunate in our community. The State Employees Combined Campaign provides an excellent – and easy – way for us to do just that.

DOA has a proud tradition of supporting the SECC, and I was honored by the invitation to serve as Statewide Chair of the 2008 Campaign. I ask each of you to consider making a pledge to benefit one or more of the hundreds of carefully screened charitable organizations featured in this year’s Resource Guide.

While the economy may influence your giving this year, please remember that charities which rely on SECC funds to provide vital services are also feeling the pinch. As with last year’s campaign, DOA’s emphasis is on participation and not a specific giving amount. A pledge of any amount will boost the agency total and provide help to those who need it most. Through your generosity, we exceeded our goal of 40 percent participation last year and will aim for topping 42 percent this year.

As with last year’s record-breaking effort, this year’s pledge drive will be brief, beginning on August 11 and ending on October 10. Because the collection period has been compressed, I ask that you review your SECC materials and turn in your completed form as soon as possible.

To make participation easy, the SECC Committee has planned a special promotion to not only help donors get involved, but to reward them as well. The second annual DOA Blitz Week will be held August 11-15. DOA employees who complete and turn in their SECC pledge by August 15 will receive a chance to win a $100 Gas Card. Those who make a payroll deduction pledge of at least $10 per month will receive an additional chance to win the Gas Card. The winner will be announced on August 18. Other special events will follow.

Your Division Coordinator can help you complete your SECC pledge form or answer any questions you may have. If you need additional information, feel free to contact Jill Warren Lucas, who is again chairing DOA’s campaign this year. Jill can be reached at 919-807-2496 or jill.lucas@doa.nc.gov.

Congratulations to The Administriders, who raised $2,416 for the SECC while participating in the Komen Walk for the Cure!