ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 28, 2002) - - As part of their continuing support for Maryland's charitable organizations, Governor Parris N. Glendening and Lt. Governor Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, co-chairs of the Maryland Charity Campaign (MCC), today announced Department of General Services (DGS) Secretary Peta N. Richkus will take the lead as this year's Assistant Chairperson.

     "The Maryland Charity Campaign is a wonderful opportunity for State employees and retirees to contribute toward improving the quality of life for thousands of Marylanders," said Governor Glendening. "The Department of General Services does an outstanding job coordinating with State agencies on a daily basis. I am confident that under Peta Richkus' leadership we will attain our goal for 2002."

     The 2002 campaign goal is $4.1 million. In 2001, Maryland was the number one state campaign in the nation for percentage of increase from the previous year. More than $4 million was contributed to over 700 participating charitable organizations compared to $3.8 million in 2000.

     "It is fitting that DGS lead the campaign this year because the department currently is celebrating its 140^th anniversary of support service to the State. It is a good opportunity to thank and congratulate Secretary Richkus and DGS employees for their outstanding and exemplary service to the government and citizens of Maryland," said Lt. Governor Townsend. "I look forward to working with them on the 2002 Maryland Charity Campaign."

     The 2002 theme is "Building Better Communities 2002gether" which is designed to build on the success of last year's campaign.

     Secretary Richkus said, "We at DGS are proud and enthusiastic to lead the effort to surpass last year's goal. State employees and retirees are encouraged to be as generous as possible in pledging support for the charity or charities of their choice from a comprehensive list of pre-qualified MCC charities. Together, we can and do build better Maryland communities. By continuing the tradition of giving in the workplace, we demonstrate our genuine concern about other Marylanders."

     Joining Secretary Richkus on the Executive Committee are Department of Human Resources Secretary Emelda Johnson, Colonel David Mitchell, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police and Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Secretary Dr. Georges Benjamin, whose agency was the lead in last year's highly successful campaign. Other partners include the United Way of Central Maryland and Maryland Public Television.

     State campaign co-manager Jacqueline Thompson said, "Now, more than ever, Maryland charities rely on the goodwill of State employees and retirees who give straight from the heart. Knowing exactly where our money is going when we give to MCC is one of the best aspects of the campaign."

     The kick-off for the 2002 MCC will be in mid-September. The campaign will run for 10 weeks.

CONTACT:

Dave Humphrey, Director of External Affairs
DGS Office of External Affairs
410-767-4652
E-MAIL: Dave.Humphrey@dgs.state.md.us

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