On February 7, AMA Foundation Executive Director Steve Haston attended the Kansas City Radio Control Association's 2026 KC/RC Swap-N-Shop event! He had the following to say about his travels:
"I've just recently returned from my first AMA Foundation club visit of the year, and it was everything we hope model aviation can be and more.
"Over the course of the visit, I had the opportunity to meet with dozens of incredible AMA members, spanning generations. The youth turnout was great.
"The event organizer shared something remarkable: this was the largest youth turnout the club has ever seen, with approximately 150 kids participating! Watching that many young people be engaged, ask questions, learn how things fly, and experience the joy of aviation firsthand was very cool.
"One of the highlights for me personally was handing out approximately 73 Free Flight airplanes. For many of these kids, it was their first airplane, their first taste of flight, and possibly the beginning of a lifelong connection to aviation, STEM, and creative problem solving.
"Equally meaningful were the conversations with members and supporters. Two donors took time to speak with me directly, expressing how pleased they are with the direction and impact of the AMA Foundation. Hearing that reinforces why this work matters. Philanthropy works best when donors can see the outcomes, and this weekend put those outcomes in full display.
"Events like this don't happen by accident. They happen because clubs are welcoming, volunteers are committed, mentors show up early and stay late, and members believe that sharing their passion is worth the effort. This club demonstrated exactly what makes the AMA community special: safety, education, generosity, and pride in doing things the right way.
"The visit set the tone for the year ahead. It reminded me that the future of model aviation is not an abstract idea, it's standing right in front of us, holding a Free Flight airplane, eyes up, ready to launch.
"Thank you to every member, volunteer, youth participant, parent, and supporter who made this trip such a success. I'm energized, encouraged, and more committed than ever to ensuring that the AMA Foundation continues to support opportunities that inspire, educate, and sustain model aviation for generations to come."
