Not every Experimental Aircraft Association chapter is lucky enough to have a thriving youth program.
But that doesn’t mean members of those chapters can’t pitch in and help grow the next generation of pilots and mechanics.
That’s what led the members of EAA Chapter 1236 based at Love’s Landing, a gated residential airpark in Weirsdale, Florida, to donate $3,000 to EAA Chapter 534’s aviation youth program, which is called Squadron 534.
Based at nearby Leesburg International Airport (KLEE), EAA Chapter 534 has grown its aviation youth program over the years, using donated aircraft to teach the kids how to restore and work on planes, while flight simulators are available for the kids to begin to learn to fly.
The chapter also has a very active Young Eagles program, with volunteers offering free rides to kids 8 to 17 to reach out to the community to find kids who have an interest in pursuing aviation as a career or a hobby.
Getting a $3,000 donation from a neighboring EAA chapter is much appreciated, according to EAA Chapter 534 members, who note “funding is the lifeblood of any successful youth program.”
They are also quick to point out that this isn’t the first time EAA Chapter 1236 has donated to Squadron 534. In 2019, the chapter donated $500 to the youth aviation program.
When members of EAA Chapter 534 went to Love’s landing to receive the check, they brought along Rose Rivera, the most recent recipient of a Ray Scholarship, a $10,000 scholarship that helps a student get their private pilot certificate. Rose is just waiting for her final checkride before she earns her ticket, chapter members noted with pride.