The Pilot Club of Belen has been in existence since 1947 and the Pilot Club of Los Lunas since 2008. Pilot International is reaching the milestone of 100 years of friendship and service in clubs and countries in America and around the world.
The first meeting of Pilot International was held on Oct. 18, 1921, in Macon, Ga. The establishment of this organization was the idea of Elizabeth Leonard. She and 40 local businesswomen signed the charter. The name “Pilot” was inspired by the mighty riverboat pilots of that day who represented leadership and guidance.
Ruby Newhall, president of Pilot International in 1949, was instrumental in establishing Anchor Clubs, Pilot’s youth service organization arm. We have recently re-established Compass Clubs for college-age students.
Submitted photo
Jennifer Hise-Trujillo, governor elect for the Southwestern District for 2021-22 from the Pilot Club of Belen; Teresa Scott, Pilot Club of Belen and SW District governor 2021-22; Frances Garcia, Pilot Club of Belen; Rita Powers, Pilot Club of Belen; Stacy Milhoan, Pilot Club of East Valley, Ariz., and SW District Secretary for 2021-22; and Jennifer Montano, Pilot Club of Belen president 2021-22.
Pilot International Foundation (now called Pilot International Founders Fund) was established in 1975 to further Pilot’s humanitarian efforts. Since the Pilot International Founders Fund grant program began in 1977, nearly 1,200 grants totaling more than $1,883,000 have been disbursed to Pilot Clubs to assist with service projects in their communities. Also, 1,145 scholarships have been granted, totaling more than $1,338,000.
Pilot International’s mission is to influence positive change in communities throughout the world. To do this, they come together in friendship and service, focusing on encouraging brain safety and health and supporting those who care for others.
A grand celebration took place at the Pilot International annual convention leadership on July 7-10 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Ga.
The Pilot Club of Belen will be celebrating this 100-year milestone on a local level by continuing to serve the community through its annual scholarship awards to graduating seniors, contributing to other community service programs, providing pick-me-ups for care givers and educating youth on brain safety and health.
For more information about the Pilot Club of Belen, please contact club President Jennifer Montano at 505-550-6953 and/or the Los Lunas President Evelyn Orono at 505-644-0040.
The two clubs are seeking new members who wish to join an organization of friendship and service to make an impact not only in the local community, but also in the world. Visit the international website at pilotinternational.org.
The Valencia County News-Bulletin is a locally owned and operated community newspaper, dedicated to serving Valencia County since 1910 through the highest journalistic and professional business standards. The VCNB is published weekly on Thursdays, including holidays both in print and online.
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April 18, 2024
