HUNTINGTON, W.V. - The sky was the limit-literally-for youth members who attended Universal Federal Credit Union's 7th Annual Club Education Day.
The $56-million CU sent some 80 youths aboard a single-engine Cessna for 30-minute cruises over three states.
"It was a little gutsy on our part, but the board of directors includes some retired teachers and they were all for it," said Ruth A. McCloud, Club Ed Director at UFCU of the event. "It was a wonderful experience, such a great day."
The idea was sparked after one employee, Loan Officer Valentine Johnson, shared her enthusiasm with staff over receiving her pilot's license, McCloud said.
"We thought it was a great way to get in touch with the youth in the area," McCloud said, adding that it took nearly a year of planning and coordinating with the Lawrence County Airpark and the Tri-State Pilots Association along with Young Eagles, a national organization with local chapters that teaches youths about the aviation industry and Attitude Aviation, a local pilot's school.
While the plane rides and training were free, each participant paid $10 for a T-shirt, lunch and snacks. The CU donated $2,000 to the airport for its efforts.
Before anyone could take flight, they were required to attend an all-day grounds school where experienced commercial and military pilots helped them conduct experiments and learn how to read aerial maps. The kids also participated in flight simulator activities and watched skydivers and remote control aircraft, McCloud said.
Then, one by one (most without a parent), the youths climbed aboard the single-engine Cessnas and soared above West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio.
"We always try to teach our young members something, not necessarily about financial services," McCloud said. Past events have included trips to museums and aquariums and an outdoor drama. "This was our bravest venture, by far."
