After concluding his time in Arizona, AMA Foundation Executive Director Steve Haston continued his West Coast travels by visiting with AMA clubs and members throughout California. Steve had the following to say about his California experiences:
"As I wrap up the California leg of this journey, I'm leaving with a deep sense of gratitude and renewed confidence in the future of model aviation. This part of my trip has been filled with meaningful conversations, encouraging support, and reminders that our community is full of people who believe in the mission of AMA and the AMA Foundation.
"This week has created new connections and built trust. I had the opportunity to meet with members, donors, and leaders from hobby companies, all of whom share a passion for aviation and a desire to see this hobby continue to grow. I also spent time with business leaders who are not only successful professionals but also AMA members and hobbyists themselves. That has been especially encouraging. They understand firsthand the value of model aviation—not just as recreation and sport, but as a pathway to learning, innovation, discipline, and community.
"I also hosted a donor and member gathering at a local community center. This time together gave us the chance to share more about the work of the AMA Foundation and the important role philanthropy plays in protecting and advancing this hobby. The AMA Foundation is working to encourage the broader aviation community to invest in the mission of AMA, to support education, youth engagement, flying site preservation, and the long-term strength of model aviation. These conversations matter because they help others see that what we do here reaches far beyond the flightline.
"I finished my trip in San Diego, where I continued to meet with members and donors while attending the F5J event at the Poway Flight Center. I was especially excited about seeing this discipline up close. F5J combines strategy, precision, and the graceful beauty of soaring flight in a way that reflects both the skill and artistry of model aviation. This event was another opportunity to connect with pilots, learn from the community, and continue sharing the AMA Foundation's message about why our work matters. While there, I also launched a Soaring plane for the first time!
"As I look back on this trip, I'm encouraged by the pledges we received, the goodwill we experienced, and the new partnerships now beginning to take shape. What I have seen again and again on this journey is simple: people believe in our mission. They believe model aviation matters, and they believe in investing in a future where this hobby continues to inspire builders, pilots, engineers, and dreamers.
"Thank you to every member, donor, host, and supporter who welcomed us, encouraged us, and invested in this journey. Your belief in model aviation is helping protect flying sites, inspire youth, strengthen clubs, and open doors for the next generation of aviators and innovators.
"Please continue that support in your own community—mentor someone new, encourage participation, share the story of your hobby, and stand with the AMA Foundation in a meaningful way. If you are able, I ask you to consider making a financial gift to the AMA Foundation. Your donation helps fund the programs, outreach, education, and long-term work needed to preserve, grow, and inspire this great hobby and sport for generations to come. Thank you for believing in this mission and for investing in its future."
