RENO, Nev. (November 29, 2021) – With a successful 57th STIHL National Championship Air Races now in the books, the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) is turning its attention to extending its impact and preserving its legacy. COO Tony Logoteta shared that the organization is introducing a wider range of giving opportunities to help the not-for-profit deliver broader service to both aviation and the local community.
“Our return to racing this year got us well down the road to recovery,” he said. “We still have work to do, but we are shifting our focus from survival to sustainability. Adding education and training support to the lineup alongside our legacy donation options provides our supporters a wider variety of choices to consider when making their gifts.”
RARA’s Save the Races donation campaign in 2020 yielded a little over $460,000 to help overcome the ravages of the COVID pandemic. Supporters generously gave to the cause, and Logoteta is humbled by the support received during a difficult year.
“It’s important that those who helped us stay afloat during our time of need know how much we appreciate their efforts. We are committed to preserving the STIHL National Championship Air Races as well as expanding our impact by creating more opportunities for young people to engage and be inspired to pursue a career in aviation.”
Chairman and CEO Fred Telling announced RARA’s new Flight Training Scholarship during Race Week in September. “The last part of our mission statement is ‘we’re committed to delivering a safe, entertaining, and exhilarating experience for fans while also honoring our military, inspiring our youth, and strengthening our community, economy, and culture,’” he quoted. “By adding these scholarships, we’re creating another level of engagement to go beyond just inspiration and actually help young people realize their dreams.”
The application window for the flight scholarship program will open on December 1.
With Giving Tuesday kicking off year-end donations on November 30, RARA is encouraging people to consider making their year-end contributions to one of several options. Donors can contribute to: the area of greatest need, flight scholarships, STEM education, sending military members to the races, and the National Aviation Heritage Invitational, whose mission is to ensure aviation history is kept alive by encouraging the restoration and preservation of vintage aircraft to flying condition.
Telling is grateful for past donors and is optimistic about broadening RARA’s base. “We have been very successful with donations from many, many generous people over the years. By expanding our service scope and offering several alternatives, we hope even more people will find something in our selections that aligns with their desire to give.”
Donations can be made at www.airrace.org/donate.
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About the STIHL National Championship Air Races
The STIHL National Championship Air Races are held every September just north of Reno by the Reno Air Racing Association, a 501(c)(3). The event has become an institution for Northern Nevada and aviation enthusiasts from around the world with seven racing classes, a large display of static aircraft and several military and civilian flight demonstrations. Independent economic impact studies show that the event generates as much as $100 million annually for the local economy. For more information on the STIHL National Championship Air Races, visit AirRace.org.