Perhaps you are looking for worthy charities to make your tax-deductible contributions to but are unsure which to choose. Remember that there are several great charities within our own industry.
The National Agricultural Aviation Research and Education Foundation (NAAREF) is a valuable part of our industry. NAAREF is the tax-deductible foundation that promotes and fosters research, technology, and educational opportunities benefitting the aerial application industry. NAAREF is responsible for several great programs such as PAASS, Operation S.A.F.E., Compaass Rose and “Ask the Expert” Speed Mentoring Sessions.
PAASS is the premier safety and educational program offered to attendees at state and regional conventions throughout the country. This season’s 2017-2018 presentations represent the 20th Anniversary of programs and has been responsible for a decrease in pilot accidents and chemical drift incidents since its inception. The oversight of Operation S.A.F.E. was transferred to NAAREF in 2003 after it was created by the NAAA in 1981. Operation S.A.F.E. clinics use trained analysts and state-of-the-art electronic equipment to evaluate the application pattern while minimizing drift outside of the target field. Compaass Rose is a program developed in 2002 to educate new pilots in the aerial application industry about personnel, practices and equipment used in aerial application. Compaass Rose was joined in 2013 at the NAAA National Convention by “Ask the Expert” Speed Mentoring Sessions with the same goal.
Donations can be made to NAAREF by sending them to NAAREF, 1440 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 or by completing the online NAAREF Donation Form by clicking the “Donate NAAREF” icon on the NAAREF information page.
Another worthwhile project worthy of your support is the National Agricultural Aviation Museum (NAAM) which is part of the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum in Jackson, Miss. NAAM houses exhibits highlighting the history of aerial application through modern times. The museum is a favorite of travelers as they pass through the area. NAAM also houses the National Agricultural Aviation Hall of Fame which commemorates individuals that have contributed to equipment and technology to make agricultural aviation what it is today.
The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum is embarking on a project to renovate the museum to more modern and interactive displays to make the content even more attractive to youth and adults alike. Instructions for donating to the museum can be found on their web site by clicking here.
