Governor LePage, DEP Commissioner Aho Announce State Employees, Retirees Raise $270,000 For Charity
December 21, 2012
Contact: Samantha Warren, DEP Communications Director and 2012 MSECCA Coordinator, (207) 592-0427
Through a combined charitable appeal, current and former State employees have raised more than $6 million for hundreds of causes over the past three plus decades
AUGUSTA ? State employees and retirees reflect the generous spirit of the state they serve, having raised $270,000 for charity in just two months through the 33rd annual Maine State Employees? Combined Charitable Appeal (MSECCA).
Governor Paul R. LePage and Maine Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Patricia Aho, who served as this year?s campaign chair, announced that amount Friday afternoon in the Cabinet Room at a celebration of the volunteers from each State agency who coordinated the contributions of their colleagues.
Governor LePage and the Commissioner, who both donated through MSECCA, personally thanked each volunteer for their service to the campaign, and the State.
?We are a state known for helping our neighbors so it does not surprise me that this year?s campaign was successful despite national economic challenges,? the Governor said. ?I ? and the charities that benefit from MSECCA ? are appreciative of the compassion and contributions of the 1,200 employees and retirees who donated this year. The generosity of all who gave will make an enormous difference in the lives of many. It is food in the cupboards and oil in the tanks of those who would have otherwise had none. Christmas will be more cheerful and the winter a little warmer.?
During its 33-year history, around $6.5 million has been raised through MSECCA making it one of Maine?s most meaningful workplace giving campaigns.
?We are all part of a collective family we call Maine and through this campaign, we came together to lend our family members in need a hand-up. I am heartened by the generosity of State employees and retirees whose contributions create hope and opportunity,? Commissioner Aho said. ?MSECCA is a shining example of the spirit of this season, but the money it raises brightens lives year-round.?
Through the campaign, State workers and retirees show their collaborative commitment to their communities by contributing through one-time gifts or scheduled payroll/retirement deductions. Hundreds of charities are affiliated with the campaign through participating federations, but donors can also direct monetary gifts to any organization of their choice not listed. Monies raised through the 2012 campaign will be distributed starting this January.
-END-