PHOTOS: Flight teams help propel charity airlift to new heights

Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Precision and Aerobatics flight teams partnered with the Colorado Aviation Business Association and other volunteers to deliver more than 10,000 pounds of food and toys to veterans and families in need across Colorado.

The 14th Annual VFW CABA Charity Airlift took flight from Centennial Airport on Sunday, continuing a tradition of service that began in 2011. Over the years, this initiative has distributed more than 80,000 pounds of holiday essentials to communities statewide, including rural and underserved areas such as Grand Junction, Durango and Alamosa.

“Each year, more cargo of food, supplies and gifts are being sent around the state by volunteers,” said Chad Kendall, associate professor of Aviation and Aerospace Science at MSU Denver.

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The airlift is fueled by a robust partnership. Colorado Veterans of Foreign Wars chapters organize food and toy collections, while volunteer pilots, including MSU Denver Aviation students, coordinate the logistics of transporting goods to communities far and wide.

Recognized nationally as a leader in veteran support, the University has consistently ranked among the top colleges in Military Times’ “Best for Vets” rankings. Programs like the Charity Airlift reflect MSU Denver’s commitment to serving military families while also providing students with hands-on experience that prepares them for thriving careers in the industry.