We commend Missouri's state employees for extending their tradition of personal generosity.
The results of this year's Missouri State Employee Charitable Campaign (MSECC) continue to be impressive. Consider these numbers reported Tuesday by the Missouri Office of Administration, which coordinates the campaign.
• State employees this donated more than $1,089,249 to 885 Missouri charities.
• This marks the 12th consecutive year contributions have exceeded $1 million.
• In its 31-year history, the state campaign has raised more than $28 million.
"The kindness and generosity shown year after year by Missouri state employees and their families, and the impact the annual charitable campaign has on organizations across the state is truly touching," said Office of Administration Commissioner Doug Nelson. "To exceed the $1 million mark every year for more than a decade is a true testament to the generosity of state employees and will unquestionably make an impact on those in need across Missouri."
The impact in Central Missouri also is significant. Ann Bax, president of the United Way of Central Missouri, said: "Year after year the Missouri State Employee's Charitable Campaign is one of our top two campaigns. I am proud of our state employees, and grateful for their long tradition of loyal support to the area United Way and all of the philanthropic organizations throughout Missouri."
What makes the achievement of the state campaign all the more remarkable is that - for another consecutive year - Missouri's state employees continue to rank as the lowest paid in the 50 states.
No one could fault state workers if they began to refocus priorities to address their own needs rather than the needs of others.
But the campaign results amply demonstrate state workers remain committed to kindness and compassion.
We find it fitting that during this season of giving, the state employees charitable campaign continues to exemplify the spirit of generosity.