Blue Ridge Parkway headquarters office employees raised an impressive $20,549 during their annual Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) fund-raising events this year.  

Regional CFC coordinators lauded this small office as one of their highest per capita contributors with only 17 employees generating most of the total donation through payroll deductions. Five employees reached CFC’s “Pillar Society” status by contributing over $1,000 individually. The park’s past three campaigns have generated almost $60,000 for local, national and international charities.

A potluck breakfast and presentations by local charities kicked off the donation drive, which featured unique and enjoyable activities to keep employees engaged in giving. The number of events has grown over the years and now includes a live art auction (complete with a spirited auctioneer coaxing high bids for donated art and handcrafts by talented employees), a chili cookof, a silent auction with items donated by staff, and a highly competitive cornhole tournament with employees vying for the coveted “Blue Ridge Parkway Annual Cornhole Classic” trophy.  The fundraiser has become a much anticipated event that allows the staff to raise money for great causes while taking a break for some fun and revelry with coworkers.  

The mission of the CFC is to promote and support philanthropy through a program that is employee-focused, cost-efficient, and effective in providing all federal employees with the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all. Employees can donate by making a one-time contribution or through payroll deductions.

Park CFC coordinators Herbert Young, Jr. (permits coordinator) and Steven Kidd (archeologist/cultural resource specialist) were pleasantly surprised to surpass this year’s goal.

“Even with the challenging economy, for the past several years the parkway campaign has annually increased and surpassed fundraising goals,” said Young. “This is a testament to the generosity of our staff.”

Shaq Thomas (human resources specialist) won the chili cookoff with her “Wisconsin Delight” and team “Phil the Peyn” (Phil Francis, superintendent, and Maschelle Peyton, facility management systems specialist) took the cornhole title.