SEFA campaign under way

The 2001 State Employees Federated Appeal (SEFA) campaign boasts a starting lineup of dedicated state workers who last year raised a record amount of money for the charity program.

“It shows promise for this year’s campaign. State workers have shown their spirit of giving to those in need, time and time again,” said UUP President William Scheuerman, co-chair of the SEFA campaign. Scheuerman joins state Education Commissioner Richard Mills at the helm of the statewide campaign. Mills also serves as president of the University of the State of New York.

“SEFA is a true labor/management partnership,” Scheuerman added. “It shows how employees, managers and unions work together to lend a helping hand.”

Kickoffs for the SEFA campaign are now being held throughout the state, with events in Rochester, Buffalo, New York City, Albany, Poughkeepsie and other regions. There are 82 agencies and authorities that participate in the campaign. Festivities include breakfasts, lunches and parties to announce this year’s campaign to state employees. The theme of “Give A Little. Help A Lot!” is explored in the new SEFA video, posters and handouts. This year’s video features both Scheuerman and Mills, who explore some of the ways that SEFA helps those who sometimes unexpectedly find themselves in need.

There are nearly 4,000 health care and human service agencies that qualify to receive SEFA donations. Employees can designate where they want their donations to go. Services include day care, health care needs, housing needs, environmental programs, recreational activities, programs for the elderly, after-school activities, neighborhood projects and more. Each agency is listed in a booklet available to state employees.

Last year, state workers donated $8.5 million to SEFA. Many state employees also contribute time and expertise as campaign managers, loaned associates and volunteers in other capacities for the SEFA program.

Those who wish to donate to SEFA can complete pledge cards distributed at their work sites during the campaign kickoffs. The donations will be automatically deducted from their paychecks every two weeks for distribution to a charities of their choice. Employees can also make lump-sum donations for the year.

— Liza Frenette