AUGUSTA ? Highlighting the importance of giving back, Governor Paul R. LePage and Maine Department of Transportation Commissioner David Bernhardt are calling on State employees and retirees to raise $300,000 through the 37th annual Maine State Employees? Combined Charitable Appeal.
Governor LePage and Commissioner Bernhardt, who is serving as chair of the 2016 MSECCA campaign, kicked-off the initiative today in the Hall of Flags at the State House in Augusta.
Department leaders and volunteers from State agencies who will encourage colleagues to contribute to the three-month campaign joined Governor LePage and Commissioner Bernhardt.
?I am proud of the yearly contributions Maine state employees and retirees make to this highly worthwhile effort,? said Governor LePage. ?We in Maine know what it?s like to give a hand up to those who need it most. This MSECCA effort is another opportunity for the Maine people to truly help their fellow Mainers.?
During its 37-year history, about $8.7 million has been raised through MSECCA, making it one of Maine?s most meaningful workplace giving campaigns. Last year, State workers and retirees showed their collaborative commitment to their communities by contributing almost $250,000 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 an organization of their choice not listed.
?This is about what we can do as citizens to help improve the lives of fellow Mainers,? said Commissioner Bernhardt. ?I encourage all state employees to contribute what they can and make this year the best effort yet.?
Beginning today, State employees are able to contribute to the 2016 campaign online at www.maine.gov/msecca. The campaign concludes in mid-December.