Speech

CFC Kickoff

Remarks as prepared for delivery

Good morning, and thank you, Jim [Washington]. That was a beautiful rendition of the anthem, wasn’t it?

I don’t have to tell you that at this point in America’s history, there are a ton of people in need. You don’t have to look any further than the front page to see that if there ever were a time to dig deep, for all of us to lend a hand, it’s today. When I read the unemployment statistics and hear the stories of the people who are in a tough spot, well, it reminds me that I — we — have a duty.

If we all gave a dollar per workday, which is what we spend on a cup of coffee nationwide, we’d raise almost $12 million. But don’t focus on the numbers. I think the real key here is to look at the people. We can make a difference here.

In a moment, we’re going to hear from a couple of men who are no strangers to adversity. Steve Fitzhugh made his way from working with John Elway to working in one of D.C.’s roughest neighborhoods, and he made a difference in Denver, and he’s making a difference in DC. And Barry Hyde is an aviation professional with a story that will make you think twice before you think you are facing an insurmountable challenge.

CFC is a good deal. It helps us lend a helping hand. It lets us share the blessings we have. And it’s also a sign to the American public that we as civil servants can be counted on in times of need.

So I’m encouraging you to give. Remember, we’re talking about a cup of coffee. There’s an old proverb that encourages us to cast our bread on the waters. It’s a reminder for those who are blessed to bless others in turn. Today’s a good day for us to do that. Today is a good day for us to be an example to the rest of America. Thank you.