Again this year the District of Columbia government embarked upon a citywide drive encouraging employees to join the 2011 “Each One Give One” One Fund campaign. This annual fundraising event supports the United Way of the National Capital area and the United Black Fund in their efforts to provide sustained funding to local non-profit organizations offering District residents and those from surrounding jurisdictions essential health and human services.
The contribution goal set by Mayor Vincent Gray for this year was $1 million dollars. The Department of Corrections’ (DOC) committed to a target of $25,000 but with the support of so many giving and dedicated staff achieved a contribution total of $69,024.93 including 62 Fair Share Givers!!! The success of this year’s campaign can be attributed to the team spirit shown by DOC staff and the outstanding job done by the Department’s One Fund Coordinators, and the hard work and commitment of the members of the One Fund Planning/Implementation Committee.
The Department held a kick-off event and a number of other special activities aimed at ensuring staff from all shifts had the opportunity to participate and hear first hand stories about the impact of their giving. Activities included an early morning breakfast for the midnight shift, comedy acts, motivational speakers, line and hand dancing, a cookout, and presentations by Director Faust, the City’s One Fund Chair Chief Kenneth Ellerbe and other District One Fund Coordinators. The Department’s campaign also received a great deal of community support with representatives from WPFW, Children of Mine, United Way, United Black Fund, Helping Hands, EFFORTS, and WHUR actively participating in events held to promote increased staff involvement.
On Wednesday, April 11, 2012, the Department held a closing reception to recognize and thank everyone who participated in making this great outcome possible. Certificates were given to all donors with inspirational remarks delivered by Director Faust and Deputy Mayor Paul Quander who expressed pride in the commitment of DOC employees who collectively contributed to the Department’s ranking as Number One in the Public Safety Cluster and District Government!!!