Maine Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner, Colleagues and Volunteers Kick-Off State Charitable Campaign

Augusta, Maine - Noting Maine's tradition of neighbors helping neighbors, Governor Paul R. LePage and Maine Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Patricia Aho are calling on State employees and retirees to raise $300,000 through the 33rd annual Maine State Employees' Combined Charitable Appeal.

Commissioner Aho, who is serving as chair of the 2012 MSECCA campaign, kicked-off the initiative today at the Maine State Library.

She was flanked by fellow Commissioners from the departments of Labor, Education, Transportation and joined by the volunteers from each State agency who will encourage their colleagues to contribute during the two month campaign and representatives from the 17 federations - many of which are United Ways - whose member charities benefit.



"For more than three decades, the generosity of Maine State employees and retirees has made an enormous difference in the lives of so many here in Maine and around the world. MSECCA matters and so do the people it benefits. Families throughout our state and nation are facing tough times, and it is more important than ever to lend a hand-up to those less fortunate. By working together, we will continue to change lives and strengthen the state we love," said Governor LePage.

During its 32 year history, more than $6 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 around $300,000 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.

"We all know the value of giving, and how the impact of helping a neighbor affects not only our own lives positively, but our communities and entire state. After all, Mainers are known for looking out for each other," Commissioner Aho said. "Through MSECCA, State workers are coming together to make a difference in the lives of many who they will never meet, but whose lives have been made better by their care and compassion."

Bread of Life Ministries, which provides services to Augusta area's poorest citizens to help them develop self-sufficiency, has historically been the single largest recipient of MSECCA funding. The organization's executive director, Dean Lachance, spoke at the event about how MSECCA matters.

"Ultimately, like the success our Governor has had in overcoming homelessness, our goal is to end the cycle of poverty and homelessness one person at a time, such that each person becomes self-sufficient, and becomes a healthy, active member of our community," he said. "On behalf of those we serve, I want to thank MSECCA donors for helping us make this happen. Each of you can, and do make a difference."

Beginning today, State employees are able to contribute to the 2012 campaign online at http://www.maine.gov/msecca and the campaign concludes in early December.