DLA Headquarters kicks off CFC learning about the science behind ‘Give Happy’

Givers are happier than keepers, a Defense Department manager of the 2024 Combined Federal Campaign said in a nod to the annual fundraiser's "Give Happy" theme during a kickoff ceremony for Defense Logistics Agency Headquarters Oct. 31 at the McNamara Headquarters Complex.

"Research shows that people who engage in random acts of kindness with strangers or loved ones have a physical reaction that actually helps them age slower," Curtis Rumbaugh said. Kindness and giving to charities also decrease stress hormones and increase hormones attributed to social bonding, he added.

CFC is the world's largest and most successful workplace charity campaign, giving employees over 8,000 vetted charities to pick from.

DLA Director Army Lt. Gen. Mark Simerly said CFC helps donors be intentional about how and where they contribute, in a world where there's no lack of need.

"Part of the magic is that you're able to designate the charity that resonates most with you, whether it's supporting veterans, advancing education, fighting hunger or protecting the environment," he said.

But the campaign is more than just a fundraising drive, Simerly said.

"It's a testament to our collective spirit of giving and a dedication to making a difference, both within our communities and around the globe," he continued, adding that DLA employees understand the power of unity and service.

"Just as we work tirelessly to ensure that our warfighters have the resources they need, our contributions to the CFC ensure those in need have support and resources to build better lives," the director said.

Even seemingly small donations of money and time can create hope and possibility. Rumbaugh described a study that took place on a cold, wet day in Chicago as people waited in line for a late bus. Researchers set up a table with hot chocolate and gave people the chance to take a cup or give it to someone else.

"Many people chose to give it to people waiting in the front of the line, who did not want to give up their spot for that bus they'd been waiting for," he said.

When asked how much impact their action had on a scale of 0 to 10, most said 1 or 2.

"But when they asked the people who received it, it was close to 10," Rumbaugh said. "They had a miserable day at work and a miserable commute, and then a stranger gave them a gift. These small, little things build up to have a major impact."

Federal employees have raised over $8 billion through CFC since 1961. In 2023, employees contributed almost $71 million to local, national, and international charities, plus over 81,078 hours of volunteer service.

Employees can donate by credit card or payroll deduction on a one-time or recurring basis at CFCGiving.opm.gov or the CFC Giving Mobile App on their cell phone. Both options are secure and allow users to search for specific charities or view a list of organizations that support categories by location. A hand icon appears next to charities needing volunteers.

For more information, visit DLA's CFC website or contact a keyworker in your directorate.