From Camp to Cockpit: Elevating the Next Generation of Black Youth

At Raise a Child of the Carolinas (RACC), we believe every child deserves the chance to dream big—and be given the tools to chase those dreams. This summer, those dreams took flight. Literally!

In celebration of Black Philanthropy Month and our 7-year anniversary, we’re spotlighting the incredible impact of our RACC Wings & Dreams Aviation Camp, a hands-on program designed to open up the skies—and possibilities—for underserved youth.

More Than a Summer Camp, a Launchpad for the Future

The RACC Wings & Dreams experience wasn’t your typical summer enrichment. It was a full immersion into the world of academics, aviation, and STEAM.

Over the course of the program, students explored:

• The principles of flight, learning what makes airplanes soar

• The science of aircraft design, with hands-on engineering projects

• The history of aviation, including trailblazing Black pioneers who changed the industry

• The future of aviation, including careers that many had never considered before

Using flight simulators, building model airplanes, and engaging in interactive lessons, students got to experience the magic of flight from every angle. For many, this was their first introduction to aviation—and their eyes lit up with curiosity and confidence.

Meeting the People Who Make Planes Fly

One of the most impactful parts of the program was hearing directly from the professionals who bring airports and aircraft to life. Campers met:

• Pilots who spoke about their training and the thrill of flying

• Ramp agents and gate agents who shared how teamwork keeps flights on time

• Maintenance crew who explained the importance of safety and technical skill

These interactions gave our youth a powerful message: “You belong in these spaces, too.” Representation and real-world connection matter—and our students left feeling seen and inspired.

From Observation to Experience

The program also included site visits to aviation museums and a local airport, where students had the opportunity to apply what they’d learned, ask questions, and truly envision themselves in the field. The joy and wonder were contagious—teachers, volunteers, and even parents walked away uplifted.

Powered by Philanthropy, Made Possible by You

This program was more than a summer highlight, it was a milestone made possible by the generosity of our community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our supporters and partners who made RACC Wings & Dreams possible: New Waves of Joy Baptist Church, Charlotte Mecklenburg School Nutrition, Albemarle Foundation, United Way of Greater Charlotte, and The NASCAR Foundation. Your investment in Black-led, Black-serving organizations like ours ensures that children who’ve historically been left out of STEM pathways now have a seat at the table—and in the cockpit.

RACC Turns 7: Let’s Keep Rising Together

This year, RACC celebrates 7 years of service, with over 500 youth empowered through afterschool and STREAM+ programs. To mark this milestone, we’ve launched our “It Takes a Village” campaign with a goal of raising $7,000 for 7 years of impact.

Your donation of just $7, or more, can help fund more transformative programs like RACC Wings & Dreams. Because when one child soars, the whole community rises.

Donate now to support the next 7 years of dreams and discovery.

Why Black Philanthropy Month Matters

Black Philanthropy Month is more than a celebration, it’s a call to action. By giving to Black-led organizations focused on Black communities, you help EXPOSE youth to new opportunities, INSPIRE bold dreams, and EMPOWER lifelong success.

We’re proud to be part of that movement—and we’re just getting started.