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Gus Serra is helping to fuel the future for young aviators. His enthusiasm for aviation and a belief that more young people should have access to opportunities in the field led him to establish the High Flight Aviation Fund at the Community Foundation.
Gus and his wife Kathleen, both retired pilots, settled in Harbor Springs after spending summers in Good Hart. Gus quickly became involved with local aviation efforts through Char-Em ISD, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), and Civil Air Patrol (CAP). Today, he is focused on helping young people pursue their own path in aviation.
"The aviation industry contributes nearly $2 trillion to the U.S. economy and supports more than 10 million jobs," Gus shared. "It is important for students to be exposed to the industry."
The fund supports aviation programs that give students access to training and learning opportunities that can be financially out of reach. It also includes an endowment component that provides long-term support for the partner organizations and their work with students. An advisory committee made up of representatives from Char-Em ISD, EAA, and CAP helps guide funding priorities and grant recommendations, keeping the focus on opportunities for young people interested in aviation.
By establishing the fund through the Community Foundation, Gus created a way to his passion for aviation to continue supporting students and local programs for generations to come.
Read more and donate to the High Flight Aviation Fund in our giving portal.