As the Statewide Campaign Chair for the 2011 CT State Employees' Campaign for Charitable Giving (CSEC), I realize that all of us are facing challenges due to the slow recovery of the national economy. I also know, however, that Connecticut's state employees have a long tradition of rising to meet challenges and of supporting organizations that help our state’s most vulnerable residents. With that tradition in mind, I am asking for your support of the more than 700 charitable organizations participating in this year's charitable giving campaign.

As public employees, the nature of the work that we do, and the services we provide, keep us in touch with the very real and vital needs in our communities. While many of you already support charitable causes, I urge you to include the Connecticut State Employees' Charitable Campaign in your giving. Through the CSEC we can work together to make a positive difference in the communities where we live, work and serve.

Last year, the CSEC raised just over $1.7 million through the generosity of 7,268 state employees and retirees. I thank those employees and retirees and I urge every state employee to consider the good you can do by joining in the campaign. In these difficult times, the need in our communities, across the country and around the world is greater than ever.

Please, join your colleagues in making a difference this year. The CSEC committee and I are grateful for your consideration, and for your support, in "Caring for Connecticut…and Beyond."

Thank you for your consideration and support.

Sincerely,

{Patricia A.Rehmer, MSN - 2011 Statewide Campaign Chair}

Patricia A.Rehmer, MSN
Commissioner, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services
2011 Statewide Campaign Chair