Based at the New York Stewart International Airport, the 501 ( C ) 3 program has impacted more than 1000 youth to date through a diverse series of immersive aviation themed experiences and academic disciplines. The program relies solely on private endowments, grants and corporate sponsorships. Demand continues to soar and a dedicated flight academy is critical in providing opportunities in aviation for underrepresented communities. Philanthropic donations help foster aspiring aviators of tomorrow in New York State.
Beginning in 2018 at the request of Mr. Bill Kaplan, NAUC founder and philanthropist, Red Tails at the Armory opened. The purpose of the program is to increase awareness of aviation opportunities to individuals who are not normally exposed. This program serves 2nd grade thru 6th grade. Located in the heart of downtown Newburgh, the NAUC offers a host of non-traditional classroom activities that include Red Tails at the Armory.
On September 3, 2018, we began our 3 one-hour classes, featuring Tuskegee Airmen history, aviation careers, aerodynamics, communications, navigation, aircraft systems, flight simulation and numerous STEM activities.
Lee A. Archer Jr. Red Tail Youth Flying Program - The Lee A. Archer Jr., Red Tail Youth Flying Program is also a 501 (c) (3). This youth-oriented program is a mentor program designed and operated by the Major General Irene Trowell-Harris chapter until 2019 when it became the overarching 501 (C) 3 entity of all our youth programs. The concept is to use flight instruction as a context to mentor, tutor and provide role models for young men and women and to affect positive change in the community.
In this 23rd year, the program is extended to 20 students from the Mid-Hudson Valley. Our objective and vision is to take youth from 7th grade through 12th grade and introduce and teach all facets of aviation. Course work is once a week for three hours. Our program is situated in a classroom provided by Atlantic Aviation.
The Major General Irene-Trowel Harris Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen has been serving the Mid-Hudson Valley community for 24 years. Through their scholarships, training and mentoring programs they have impacted the lives of over 900 underrepresented youths. By doing so, they kept the legacy of the Tuskegee Airman alive.
With the generous donation of a program benefactor and Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., on September 10, 2021, we launched The RedTail Flight Academy (RFA), a Program of the 501 (c) (3) established Lee A. Archer Jr, Red Tail Youth Flying Program. Flanked by Tuskegee Airman Lt Col Enoch Woodhouse, a carefully constructed board and the friends and family of our initial class of 7 RedTail Flight Academy candidates, we began training at New York Stewart International Airport.