WRIGHT FLIGHT INC
Cause Area
- Children & Youth
- Community
- Education & Literacy
Location
7075 S PLUMER AVE 14TUCSON, AZ 85756 United StatesWebsite:
http://www.wrightflight.org
Organization Information
Mission Statement
The mission of Wright Flight is to use the inherent motivational power of aviation as a stimulus for students to set and achieve higher goals in their educational and personal development. We teach students that through commitment and hard work, they can achieve their goals, earn the reward of exciting aviation-related experiences and develop a more positive self-concept. Wright Flight reflects real life. It’s not your "normal" non-profit organization. Nor is it like a team where everybody gets a trophy. Kids learn you have to earn the right to graduate. If you don’t work hard, you won’t get off the ground. More than anything else, Wright Flight shows that raising standards and expectations is the best way to raise self-esteem. Our kids set a goal, meet a challenge, and change their life.
Description
Wright Flight, Inc., named after the Wright Brothers, is a unique program that began in Tucson in 1986. Wright Flight was founded by Lt. Col. Robin Stoddard, USAF (ret.) who, at the time, was an Air Force Fighter pilot.
Each year, over 1000 local students learn about the achievements of historical figures in aviation, complete a formal contract with their own goal, and work hard to achieve it with the guidance of their teacher/club leader. Successful graduates earn the chance to fly a small plane alongside an experienced volunteer pilot at a "Fly Day".
We introduce Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) careers to students as young as ten years old. The outcomes for program graduates include better grades, better attitudes at school and home, increased self-confidence and a success mentality. Wright Flight is proud to be welcoming our second generation of students. Many of our students' parents and teachers come to us after having a Wright Flight experience of their own.
Wright Flight programs would not be possible without the partnership of local teachers, schools, donors, pilots, and ground volunteers. Together we can help kids reach new heights!