In early June, AMA Foundation Executive Director Steve Haston drove to attend the 2026 Wings for Kids event in Louisville, Kentucky. Hosted June 6 and 7, Steve had the following to say about his travels and time at the event:
"On June 4, I started my travels to the 2026 Wings for Kids event with the AMA Model Aviation Experience Sponsored by Wing in tow. Joining me, as she always does, was my copilot and wife of 42 years, Missy.
"The navigation system said it was a 3-hour drive from AMA's International Aeromodeling Center to Louisville, but 6 hours and 30 minutes later, we arrived at the hotel. With traffic and a 30-foot simulation trailer, I took it kind of slow. Lol.
"Early the next morning, I headed over to the event site, which is the River City Radio Controllers flying field. What a great flying site! Several dozen volunteers showed up to help set up the site and the event. Wings for Kids is a premier model aircraft air show in Louisville, Kentucky, benefiting the Norton Children's Hospital, and you feel that purpose, energy, and support the moment you get there.
"Once the gates opened, the crowd rushed in. Kids were everywhere. Some of them had never seen an RC airplane up close, and suddenly they're standing next to a turbine jet ... and then a giant-scale warbird flies by ... and then a 4-foot-wingspan 3D aircraft is dancing in front of them! They were mind blown and had eyes as big as saucers! The flying lineup was top-notch.
"Now, those kids are hooked, which means the simulation trailer stayed busy all day. Kids and adults alike; it is in all of us to want to fly. And fly they did! About 400 passed through the simulation trailer each day of the event. Many new members were born, and who knows what they might accomplish in this hobby.
"But the best part—and let's not forget why all of these pilots, the simulation trailer, and the volunteers were there—was the reason behind the event. Every raffle ticket, every donation bucket, and every volunteer hour all went toward helping kids and families who need help and support. The model aviation community is AMAzing, with all of us coming together for good causes across the country.
"By the time we wrapped up and loaded the trailer, I was tired and Missy was tired ... but it was worth it. Missy and I looked at each other and agreed: long drive or not, we'll be back."
