Each summer the Pilot Club of Huntington hosts a world-class Antique Show that benefits a wide variety of local charities.
By Amy Deal
HQ 122 | SUMMER 2023
When most people think of pilots, their thoughts immediately turn to the sky. But long before there were airplane pilots, there were riverboat pilots guiding their vessels up and down rivers around the world; and it was in their honor that Pilot International was founded in 1921. The community-based organization began in Macon, Georgia, and its many clubs are dedicated to influencing positive change in communities throughout the world.
The Pilot Club of Huntington, a part of Pilot International, is a volunteer community service organization that supports various charities. The Huntington charter was founded in 1941, and during its 82-year history it has awarded nearly $1 million in grants to local organizations. Most recently the club has promoted brain safety and health through community education programs and monetary grants. Just a partial list of past recipients includes the Huntington Alzheimer’s Walk, the Huntington Museum of Art’s children’s program, Recovery Point, River Valley Child Development Services, Lily’s Place, Branches Domestic Violence Center, the Huntington Police Department and the Cabell County Public Library.
Jennifer Wheeler, director of development at the Huntington Museum of Art, says that the recurring gift from the club supports the museum’s educational outreach programs.
“Our partnership with the Pilot Club is mutually beneficial,” says Wheeler. “Our longtime relationship is a great example of a community partnership that strengthens programs and broadens the reach of both organizations.”
The club makes presentations throughout the year to local schools and youth groups, and the message is simple — we only have one brain, and it must be protected. The club’s Brain Minders program was started in 2001 and is made up of 14 puppet characters who cover topics like playground, fire, helmet and swimming safety, as well as bullying prevention. The presentation is interactive and shown to children ages 2 to 7. BrainMinders also hands out different gifts to the children depending on the time of year. Fall will see the kids presented with crayons, school supplies and coloring books. Summer gifts include sunglasses, beach balls and other summer-themed items. The informative show is always a hit and has been presented at Covenant School, Ebenezer Child Care, Our Lady of Fatima School and Enslow Park Presbyterian Preschool.
The money for the grants is raised each year during the club’s only fundraising event — the annual Pilot Club Antique Show and Sale. Longtime member Doris Dalton came up with the idea for the show. Dalton was an authority on antiques and believed a show would be an excellent source of revenue.
Each year, up to 30 certified antique dealers from all over the United States come to Huntington for the show. They pay a fee for a booth space and set their own pricing for items. However, they’ve been known to entertain offers. Items include artwork, estate jewelry, glassware, silver, coins and china. Last year’s show saw the addition of several local artists and was a huge success.
This year’s show will be held August 18-20 at the Mountain Health Arena Conference Center. Tickets are $6 and good for all three days. If purchased in advance from a Pilot Club member, tickets are $5.
The end of the show weekend doesn’t mean the club members get to sit back and take a break, as planning for next year’s show starts immediately.
Over the years, the club has made several contributions to local charities and groups. Safety Town saw the donation of two cars, and the library saw donations made for a room for the blind. Children’s Place was presented with playground equipment, and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office was given Link to Life tracking bracelets that can be worn by people with dementia and other illnesses.
Throughout the year you will find Pilot Club members out in the community, spreading the word about brain health and safety or volunteering for other organizations. For example, during the holidays you will find them ringing the bell for the Salvation Army.
When asked what they find most rewarding about being part of the Pilot Club of Huntington, members cite serving their community, giving back, gaining knowledge and forming lifelong friendships.
“Each of us has strengths we bring to the club, and we work together for the betterment of our community,” says incoming president Chris Maniskas. “It is a privilege to be a part of this amazing group of people.”
