AMA Foundation
FUEL YOUR
PASSION
By Rusty Kennedy, AMA Foundation Chairman | rustyk716@gmail.com
What is the basic function of the AMA Foundation? It is to raise funds to build an endowment and to help fund many good AMA programs offered to AMA members and clubs. All of what the AMA Foundation does and has to offer is explained on its new website at https://amafoundation.modelaircraft.org.
To name just a couple of these programs, the Flying Site Improvement Grant provides funds so that clubs can fix up their flying fields and the Save A Life program grants funding to help clubs purchase an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) machine. You can find them all at https://amafoundation.modelaircraft.org/grants.
My favorite way to donate is the Torchbearer program. As of May 23, 2023, there are 64 Torchbearers who automatically give monthly. How strongly do I believe in what the foundation does? I have increased my monthly Torchbearer donation from $100 to $125 per month. I direct mine to the Foundation General Fund so that the donation can be used where it is best needed.
Why do I donate? Model aviation has been my hobby for 60 years. I’ve been an AMA member for approximately 46 years and have been a member and president of several clubs.
I strongly recommend that clubs and members spend time reading the AMA Foundation’s website. It contains all of the necessary information needed to apply for various grants and programs. Pay particular attention to the cutoff dates.
The AMA Walk of Fame has been cleaned up and enhanced, and a new kiosk has been installed in the AMA Headquarters lobby that will let people know where particular bricks are located.
I purchased a large brick in honor of my father. It says, “Frank Kennedy, Master Ship Modeler.” A new bench was also installed, on which I intend to sit where I’ll admire the bricks and landscaping.
The AMA Foundation’s website has been updated with new branding, a new tagline—Fuel Your Passion—and a running total of how much the Foundation has received year-to-date.
A new “free will” program was introduced that allows a potential donor to draw up a will and include AMA within it. This program is heavily used by various foundations throughout the nation.
Pictured above are AMA Foundation Director Steve Haston (L) and Rachelle Haughn, Foundation donor and programs specialist. Not pictured is Austin Perlee, digital engagement and development specialist. Sorry Austin, I’ll get you next time.
These dedicated people are the AMA Foundation’s staff. They are the heartbeat of the organization, and without them and assistance from AMA Headquarters staff, the AMA Foundation would not be able to accomplish all that it does for clubs and members.
I can’t end my column without saying a few words about Joyce Hager. She has announced her retirement after 53 years of working for AMA. She has held many positions within the organization. I first met Joyce in April 2011 and she helped guide me through my 12 years as an AMA volunteer. Her insight and guidance were invaluable. Best of luck, Joyce.
