Headquarter employees are invited to join with Deputy Secretary Alphonso Jackson and FHEO Assistant Secretary Carolyn Peoples today in the HUD cafeteria from 11 a.m. to noon as HUD kicks-off its 2003 Combined Federal Campaign.

The theme for the Department's CFC is HUD's Heart: Experience the Power of Giving.

This year's kickoff event will include upbeat musical performances by a local junior high school marching band, a viewing of the film, What Makes America Great, testimonials from individuals who have benefited from CFC organizations and exhibits by 24 agencies participating in CFC.

In addition, representatives from several participating non-profit organizations will be on hand to provide literature about and discuss the services CFC organizations offer communities.

Last year, HUD employees made nearly 1,400 contributions that raised almost $400,000 for 20 CFC organizations. More than 3,000 local, national and international non-profit organizations receive CFC contributions each year.

The Department was chosen to play a leading role in this year's CFC when President Bush selected Secretary Martinez to be the honorary chairman of the National Capital Area campaign.

Go to the National Capital Area Combined Federal Campaign (www.cfcnca.org/) for more information.