Lockheed Martin Corp. has made a financial contribution to Challenge Air for Kids & Friends, a Dallas-based organization that works to build the self-esteem and confidence of children and youth by giving them the opportunity to experience flight, as well as to participate in educational aviation programs.
"We're proud to support an organization that opens up the world of aviation to so many kids," said Jim Derr, director of Lockheed Martin’s Flight Service Program. "Our employees in Fort Worth regularly donate their time to Challenge Air. We were happy to be able to contribute financially to the organization this year as well."
Lockheed Martin employees have been volunteering with Challenge Air since 2006. They provide general support at Challenge Air events throughout the United States, as well as flight services.
"We are grateful to Lockheed Martin for its continued support," said Cindy Waggoner, Challenge Air’s program director. “Lockheed Martin employees are some of the hardest-working volunteers that we have at our events. We're thrilled to partner with Lockheed Martin to touch more lives than ever before."
Challenge Air's mission reflects the life-changing impact the flight experience has on children, as well as their families, donors, and sponsors. Its primary objective is to provide a once-in-a-lifetime flight opportunity to special-needs children and youth. Established in 1993, Challenge Air for Kids and Friends has inspired more than 28,500 physically challenged children in 36 states.
An article on Challenge Air’s founder, the late Rick Amber, appeared in the February 2001 AOPA Pilot .
