Statewide charity group celebrates 50 years

The Plattsburgh State chapter of the New York State Employees Federated Appeal recently hosted a fundraiser to increase donations in the region.

Started 50 years ago this year, the New York State Employees Federated Appeal, commonly referred to as SEFA, has acted as a partnership between state employees, union, agencies and not-for-profit organizations to raise money for charitable organizations.

According to the SEFA website, PSUC is the group’s largest contributor in the North Country, generating approximately $150,000 per year.

Typically, someone who wishes to make a donation to SEFA is able to have the amount taken directly from his or her paycheck.

However, PSUC Classroom and Customer Support Services Coordinator Carol Bleaux, who is heavily involved in the Plattsburgh chapter of SEFA, said recent donations have decreased because of more retirements and reduced hiring.

Bleaux said the group decided to host the Nov. 1 5K run/walk as a way to “be creative and find other ways to raise money.”

Given its date, participants were invited to sport their costumes during the race, held on the PSUC campus.

Though they were hoping for 100 participants, Bleaux said only 20 showed, but they were grateful for all that came out.

“We completed the run/walk before the weather took a turn,” Bleaux said. “Many thanks to all the folks that helped out. Without them it would not have been possible.”

In the future, the group also hopes to host events such as a casino night or bingo night to continue raising funds.

Email Maggie McVey at news@cardinalpointsonline.com.