Join EAA's First Wing Society
Every pilot, builder, volunteer, mentor, and aviation enthusiast has a story. David and Brandi Fill are no different. They've been First Wing Society members for over a decade. Over time, aviation became more than something they did — it became part of who they are. With assistance from the EAA Aviation Foundation team, they've made sure that others get to experience that same inspiration, opportunity, and sense of community. We invite you to hear their story.
What about you? Did your love of aviation begin with a first flight? Maybe it was a parent, grandparent, or friend who introduced you to aviation. Or maybe you found your place through an EAA chapter, a mentor, or someone who believed in you.
Like the Fill family, perhaps aviation has become part of who you are. If so, consider including the EAA Aviation Foundation in your legacy planning. Estate and legacy giving are ways to make sure others get to experience that same inspiration, opportunity, and sense of community.
"We made a planned gift to the EAA Aviation Foundation because we want to help ensure the next generation can discover the same passion we've felt for aviation."
Bob Donahue
First Wing Society Member
WHY ESTATE AND PLANNED GIVING?
It's about more than passing on assets. It's about passing on the values, experiences, and opportunities that have shaped your life.
For many EAA members, aviation has meant adventure, lifelong friendships, and a sense of belonging. Thoughtful planning helps make sure those same opportunities are there for the next person too.
"I want this place to be around in 200 years, 300 years, when none of us are around."
Matthew Katzke
First Wing Society Member
HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
There are many simple ways to include the EAA Aviation Foundation in your estate plans, while still taking care of your loved ones first.
Whether it's a gift through your will, your retirement account, or another option, your generosity helps preserve The Spirit of Aviation and support the future of flight.
Many planned gifts also carry financial or tax advantages, depending on your situation. We'd encourage you to loop in your attorney or financial advisor as you think it through.
"The funny thing about giving is that you'll never miss what you give."
Tom Klammer
First Wing Society Member
WAYS TO GIVE
Estate Gifts
- Include the Foundation in your will or living trust
- Name the Foundation as a beneficiary of your retirement account or life insurance policy
- Designate the Foundation as beneficiary of a Transfer on Death (TOD) or Payable on Death (POD) account
Lifetime Gifts
- Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from your IRA
- Gifts of appreciated securities
- Real estate or other property
- Donor Advised Funds
BEGIN THE CONVERSATION
Planning your estate is one of the most meaningful ways to support the people and causes you care about.
Whether you're just starting to explore your options or you've already included the Foundation in your plans, we're here to help.
SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF FLIGHT
Since 1962, the EAA Aviation Foundation has advanced EAA's mission by inspiring future aviators, preserving aviation history, promoting aviation education, and strengthening the aviation community.
Your estate or legacy gift can help support programs like Young Eagles, Scholarships, Air Academy, AeroEducate, and the Aviation Museum & Collections.
Your story can help shape what aviation will become. We invite you to join us.
