The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) annual fundraiser for Kitsap and Mason Counties officially kicked off during a ceremony held at the
Puget Sound Naval Museum Sept. 30.
Military and civilians working in and around Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF) were on hand to
listen to key speakers while having the opportunity to meet with some representatives from charities in the area.
“We always set a goal, and this year’s goal is $2 million for the entire region,” said Dawn Dalessio, member of the Local Federal Coordinating
Committee (LFCC) Board, and command coordinator for PSNS & IMF. “We try to work together in order for us to meet our goals.”
Capt. Mark Whitney, PSNS and IMF commander and chairman of the Kitsap and Mason County CFC, stresses the importance of donating to this
year’s campaign.
“I think it is critically important now more than ever to take that inward look and take a personal connection between each individual, their
families and people’s environments or anyone in need of help,” said Whitney.
This year, the committee plans to hold different events in order to help raise money for CFC.
“We are doing some new and exciting events this year to help raise money,” continued Whitney. "We are having a dodge ball tournament, a
great ball race, and a dance contest. All of the money raised from these events will go to a general fund for CFC." 
Cmdr. Nathan Martin, commanding officer, USS San Francisco (SSN 711), shared his personal experiences and reasons why he continues to
contribute to CFC.
“Six years ago, our son was born with special needs,” said Martin. "Over the first five days of his life, he went through two open-heart surgeries
and several medical procedures, some of which didn’t exist a few years earlier. As a result of the treatment and the support we received from
the charities that are listed in the CFC, our son is now a kindergartener here in Bremerton, and he is in good prognosis for the next 20 to 30
years. It has changed my perspective on life, how I needed to provide for my family, and the gratitude I owe to those organizations that have
helped us.”
Dalessio looks forward to this year’s campaign, and hopes that despite today’s financial hardships and obstacles, people are still able to donate.
“I’m really excited this year, and I know this is a difficult year,” said Dalessio. "Every little bit you can give really helps”.