Dr. John E. Niederhuber - Audio Description
I’m John Niederhuber, director of the National Cancer Institute, and vice chair of the 2008 Combined Federal Campaign at the NIH. It is a particular honor to help lead the campaign this year, when it is perhaps more needed than ever. With just a glance at a newspaper front page or a few minutes watching the TV news, you will be reminded that these are tough times for many of our neighbors. Layoffs, fuel prices, the mortgage crisis, and the ravages of natural disasters are daily facts of life for many individuals living in our communities. We are also well aware that, despite the great wealth of our nation, too many children go to bed each night hungry.
Fortunately, for more than 40 years, the Combined Federal Campaign has been a beacon of help. The Combined Federal Campaign is one of the most efficient - and, yes, one of the easiest - ways for federal workers to help others… close to home, nationally, and internationally. The organizations we support help abused and neglected children. They feed the hungry… search for cures for diseases… and protect our natural resources. They rescue homeless animals… provide care for the sick and the elderly… and much, much more. As federal employees, our contributions to the CFC mean that we speak with millions of voices, giving back to those who most need our help.
I know you are aware of the NIH’s proud track record in giving to the CFC… 2.2 million dollars last year… half of the total from the Department of Health and Human Services. That is a track record of which we can all be very proud, and on which I know we will build again this year.
