Campaign dedicated to support Air Force families

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Team Sheppard will begin this year's Air Force Assistance Fund, an annual fundraiser dedicated to providing support to Air Force families, March 8 with a target of $103,467 by April 16.

The funds raised go toward charitable organizations that aid Air Force people during an emergency, assists with educational needs or helps secure a retirement home for widows and widowers of Air Force members in need of financial assistance.

Capt. Tanya Balyeat, an organizer for this year's fundraiser, said the funds can also go toward loans or grants for Airmen and families; depending on the need.

She said she hopes to increase participation throughout the base because it's important for the Air Force to take care of their wingmen of all ranks, active-duty, retired and dependents.

"We're taking care of each other and the ones who came before us," the captain said. "You may end up donating to yourself or someone you know."

The AFAF does not receive any taxpayer support, yet maintains one of the lowest administrative costs of charitable organizations, saidCapt. Daniel Chavez, one of this year's AFAF coordinators.

"All of the money goes to Air Force support and this is one of few that operate that way," he said. "I have peace of mind knowing someone is looking out for me."

Captain Balyeats and Chavez said they have seen the difference the fund makes because they have used the funds for themselves and have recommended it to others.

"As a section commander, it's the number one tool I use to get help for my Airmen," Captain Chavez said. "It's a positive impact and a morale booster to see wingmen picked up in a time of need."

After having costly unexpected car trouble, Captain Balyeat used the Air Force's support to fix her car, she said.

"I know it works because I've used it," she said. "I want to make sure it's available for the next person because it was there for me. The charity can't help people if nobody donates."

Captain Chavez said he also benefited from the AFAF recently because he had to pay double-rent moving on base from off-base. He received funds through the Air Force Aid Society, one of the organizations that receive donations through the AFAF, to pay rent for his previous residence and new residence without worrying about his other expenses.

"What should've been a very stressful event went very smoothly and it was easy to do," Captain Chavez said. "They provided the means and even though I paid it off the next month, I was allowed six months before payback."

The organizations that benefit from the AFAF include the Air Force Villages Foundation, the AFAS, and the General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation.

This year, Air Force bases were divided into three campaign groups with the first group beginning the fundraiser Feb. 8 and the third group ending their campaign May 7. The AFAS will award prizes to the top base in each respective group.

Scores will be based on the installation's percentage over its goal, amount over last year's goal and active-duty participation.

If you would like to donate to the AFAF or want more information, please contact your unit representative.