Time to lend a hand to Helicopter Foundation International! Late last month, Lightspeed Aviation Foundation sent notification that HFI had been selected as one of 20 ‘finalists’ for the 2011 Pilot Choice Awards and designated gifting program. A formal announcement was made at the Sun ’n Fun International Fly-in & Expo in Lakeland, Fla. on March 31. A select group of non-profit organizations were nominated from within the aviation community, and the Lightspeed Aviation Foundation was proud to recognize them.

To receive the grant, HFI must earn enough votes to place it in the top five of the 20 ‘finalist’ charities. THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN HELP!  The 2011 Voting is now open. Cast your vote for HFI. Support HFI’s scholarship program. Your vote counts – you can ensure that we are able to keep preserving the history of the helicopter and getting scholarships to young pilots and mechanics who will keep our industry vibrant.

For the remainder of the 2011 flying season, the Lightspeed Aviation Foundation will administer winnings through foundation grants and designated gifts. Lightspeed Aviation Foundation will announce the recipients during the AOPA Summit this Sept. in Hartford, Conn.

HFI promotes the international helicopter industry as an exciting and rewarding career choice for young people, in part by offering scholarships and mentoring panels, which encourage students to pursue helicopter careers.