Sharing What We Have Been Given

Remarks by Bruce I. Knight, Chief
Natural Resources Conservation Service

at the Combined Federal Campaign Kick-Off, Washington, D.C.

November 4, 2002

After the 9/11 attacks, many Americans found it hard to put into words the overwhelming shock we were experiencing. Many responded by donating blood to the Red Cross or contributing to various relief funds. I know many of us felt the same way.

The outpouring of generosity and national spirit by Americans in the days following the September attacks was the clearest expression I can think of for the dual CFC themes this year: “patriotism” and “caring is sharing.” The annual Combined Federal Campaign is a chance for us to continue giving. More than three-thousand local, national, and international organizations participate in the CFC.

When I worked on Senator Bob Dole’s staff, I gave to the Combined Federal Campaign. One such charity I’ve long supported is the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program. This is a wonderful organization that provides an opportunity for youth with disabilities to ride horses.

I would like to pass along an idea to all of you, as a challenge: "To whom much is given, much will be required." To each of us, much has been given. Our focus frequently revolves around our families, getting to work, and saving a bit for a rainy day. I am not saying that any of those objectives are unworthy or misdirected – but I do wish to reaffirm that life has other dimensions, other secrets to fulfillment.

An occasion like this CFC campaign is an opportunity for each of us to step outside the comfort zone of our homes, our jobs, and our families. It is a chance to pause, to reflect on other values and other dimensions of our lives and the lives of those who need concern, and support.
We each could ask ourselves: How can I pass along the benefits of being a person "to whom much has been given"? Some of you will find fulfillment in supporting less privileged individuals – the hungry, the homeless, or the sick, either here or abroad. Others will focus on a particular cause – the rewards of reclaiming the environment or protecting a nature reserve.

You may want to designate a personal contribution toward finding cures for a specific disease, toward boosting children in need of day care, toward supporting a struggling artistic venture, or toward helping support your favorite faith-based initiative.

The beauty of the CFC campaign is that contributions are voluntary, and that, as a contributor, you can freely tailor your donation to match your specific range of interests and concerns.

I understand this agency not only met its CFC goal last year, but actually surpassed it.
That’s terrific and a challenge to do even better this year. I hope everyone will participate.