How does the Pilot International Foundation (PIF) operate?
Established in 1975, the Pilot International Foundation (PIF) is Pilot International’s 501 (c)(3) non-profit, charitable arm. It furthers Pilot International’s humanitarian efforts by providing matching grants to Pilot Clubs and scholarships to students preparing for careers working with people affected by brain-related disorders and disabilities. All scholarship applicants are sponsored by a Pilot Club.
Who Governs Pilot’s Foundation?
The Pilot International Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees comprising four of the Executive Committee offices (PI President, PI President Elect, PI Vice President, PI Treasurer) and the Scholarships, Grants & Revenue Development Division chairs.
What is the Pilot International Foundation’s focus for service?
The focus for PIF service is assisting those who have brain-related disorders and disabilities, and conducting preventative programs that educate people of all ages but especially youngsters about protecting their brains. Pilot’s own branded program for brain protection education is called BrainMinders.TM Pilot Clubs apply for matching grants from the Pilot International Foundation to undertake brain-related projects and others within their communities. They also fundraise and contribute to PIF to support larger, organization-wide projects that help other organizations such as St. Jude Research Hospital and Make-a-Wish Foundation.
What are some of the Foundation’s larger, organization-wide projects in which all or most Pilot Clubs and Districts involve themselves?
PIF projects include Pilot’s Brain Power Walk; Project Lifesaver; Brain Awareness Week; and BrainMinders, TM PI/PIF’s own educational program.
How do I donate to the Pilot International Foundation?
Click on the Donate button on the home page of this web site. Or, you may print a contribution form from the Foundation Section (Foundation Documents) of this web site.
What are some contribution opportunities?
Honorariums, Gifts, Memorials – One-time contributions to commemorate the life of a friend or other loved one are a beautiful and lasting way to honor them.
Planned Giving – Naming PIF in your will as a beneficiary allows the Foundation to continue its outstanding work. The positive impact is immeasurable.
PIF Sweethearts – Each year, Pilot Clubs may select a PIF Sweetheart (male or female member) and contribute $25 to the Foundation in the designated Sweetheart’s name. Deadline for submission of contribution and Sweetheart’s name is September 30. Sweethearts are listed each Pilot year in an issue of THE PILOT LOG.
Pacesetters – A Pilot Club is designated a Pacesetter Club if the club contributes $10 per active member within a Pilot year to the Pilot International Foundation. Pacesetter contributions are due at Headquarters by February 1. Pacesetter Clubs are listed in the PIF Annual Report and are recognized at District Conventions. A club that has achieved Pacesetter status for five years in a row is designated a Crystal Club. A Pacesetter District is a District with 100% of its clubs designated Pacesetters within a Pilot year. A District can become a Diamond District if 100% of its Pilot Clubs achieve Pacesetter status for five years.
The Goal for Grants and Scholarships
Each individual and club is asked to donate to the Goal for Grants and Scholarships. These contributions are the single source of funding for PIF’s matching grant program. Grants are awarded to clubs for charitable projects benefitting persons with brain-related disorders. Contributions to this fund also provide four scholarship programs set aside for students pursuing careers that positively impact the lives of those with brain-related disorders. PIF scholarships have far-reaching benefits to humanity and are especially wanted and needed during difficult economic times. Individuals, Clubs and Districts receiving $250 status are recognized at District Conventions in the Spring.
Pilot International Heritage Center Building Fund –
Donations to this fund support the construction of the beautiful and impressive Heritage Center and Gardens in Macon, Georgia which was completed in 2007, and houses PI/PIF Headquarters staff and many of the historic artifacts that have been cherished by Pilots since the organization’s founding in 1921. The building and courtyard/garden is an awe-inspiring testament to the loyalty of Pilot members, clubs and districts. Each year, people from all over the world, both Pilot members and others, visit the Heritage Center.
PIF Endowment Fund
Another great way to contribute to Pilot International Foundation and leave a lasting imprint of support is by purchasing an engraved brick with your name, or the name of a loved one, that will be on permanent display in the Heritage Garden’s lovely courtyard. Funds raised will support the Endowment Fund where the interest gained will be used for programs and services of PIF.
Recurring Gifts – Contributing a monthly gift of any amount is a meaningful way to share with those in need through the months and years, and will be a legacy of love built over time.
Pilot International Foundation Donor Recognition Program Designations
Given with love, no contribution to PIF is too small. Every dollar helps!
$50-99 Booster
$100-499 Patron
$500-$999 Benefactor
$1,000-2,499 Lucy B. Allen Club Member
$2,500-4,999 2500 Club Member
$5,000-$9,999 Emerald Club Member
$10,000-19,999 Honor Wall Member
$20,000-29,999 Legacy Wall Member
$30,000-49,999 Founder’s Circle
$50,000-74,999 Dream Builders Member
$75,000-99,999 Vision Seekers Member
$100,000 or more Golden Legacy Member
NOTE: Each donor — whether an individual, club, district, corporation or other entity — receives recognition in alignment with their contributions.
