Year’s End Is Time To Give

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Many folks will face the New Year warily uncertain of what it might bring, as global economic turmoil continues, and those who depend on the charity of others face even worse uncertainty. When times are tough, it’s harder to give, but that’s when generosity is needed most. Aviators have long been proud of their charitable efforts, and EAA has some practical suggestions — take advantage of your employer’s charitable gift matching program if available, and if you are aged 70 1/2 or older, you can transfer funds directly from your IRA to qualified charitable organizations, thus eliminating income tax on withdrawals. Check with EAA for more details. Also, EAA announced last week that AirVenture Oshkosh 2009 will spotlight the breadth and depth of good works accomplished by general aviation. The Fly for Life program will highlight more than 200 organizations that promote flying for humanitarian goals. Activities will include a major display adjacent to AeroShell Square, aircraft displays, numerous forums and presentations, an evening program, and other events.

“There are so many ways that general aviation serves people around the world — even people who don’t have a direct involvement with flying,” said Tom Poberezny, EAA president and AirVenture chairman. “Aviation is used to meet basic human needs and bring hope in so many ways, including medical and dental missions to remote regions of the world, famine relief, and a wide range of other humanitarian projects. We are looking forward to recognizing those people and organizations during EAA AirVenture 2009.” Learn more about the work of GA volunteers, and find out what you can do to participate or contribute, in Friday’s AVweb podcast with Rol Murrow, president of the Air Care Alliance.

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