Submitted

Shelia Nance of China Grove, a member of the Pilot Club of China Grove-Landis, recently attended the 96^th Pilot International Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada from June 6 through June 9, 2017.   Nance was one of more than 620 Pilots who participated in the global event that drew representatives from more than 4 countries and geographic areas around the world.

According to Nance, networking with Pilots throughout the world is an amazing opportunity to learn and share. Convention highlights included a spectacular Flag Ceremony with Pilots from around the world that marched along with their country’s flag. Attendees also heard a keynote speech from LaDonna Gatlin, a dynamic, uplifting and entertaining motivational speaker. Additional speakers included entrepreneur, Patrick Ibara, and Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Jeanne Jacobs.

Additionally, convention attendees attended workshops, learned about important issues facing communities globally, elected international officers, voted on the 2017-2018 Pilot International Budget and helped set the future direction for Pilot International.

“It was exciting to gather with so many Pilots from other countries. It’s a great reminder that Pilots are not only making a difference in our local communities, but also around the world.” said Nance, President of the Pilot Club of China Grove-Landis.

Locally, Pilot Club members make an impact in the community through service. Current Ongoing Projects:

1. Present Brain Minders classes to local kindergarten students.
2. Provide “Pick-Me-Up” gift bags for Hospice House staff.
3. Provide funding and activities for Trinity Living Center.
4. Support Main Street Mission in China Grove.
5. Express appreciation to local firefighters, police officers, and military personal yearly.
6. Support “Camp Carefree”.
7. Support “Safe Harbor Project” for communities in need.

Upcoming Project:

“Surfer’s Healing Project” for children with autism in August at Wrightsville Beach.

Proceeds from past fund-raising events have been used yearly for Jean Jordon Scholarships for South Rowan and Carson High Schools graduates.

The Pilot Club of China Grove-Landis has 17 members and meets on the third Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Frank A. Tadlock Public Library. Pilot clubs are groups of men and women that identify needs within their communities and work together to fulfill those needs. For more information or to get involved with the Pilot Club of China Grove-Landis, please contact Shelia Nance at 704-433-1504 or e-mail at san_retired@yahoo.com

Pilot International is a community-based volunteer service organization founded in 1921 in Macon, GA on the principles of “Friendship and Service”. The name “Pilot” was inspired by the mighty riverboat pilots of that day who represented leadership and guidance. With more than 7,200 members in almost 300 Pilot Clubs, Pilots can be found across the US, Bahamas, Japan, and South Africa. Pilots carry out their mission to “Do More, Care More, and Be More” by providing financial and hands-on support for national and local initiatives in keeping with its causes of youth development & leadership, brain safety & fitness, and caring for families in times of need. In addition, there are over 7,200 school-level Anchor Club members worldwide. Through a professionally developed curriculum and strategic partnerships, Pilot encourages and provides opportunities for youth development & leadership. Pilot International remains headquartered in Macon, where its staff serves its international constituency. Contact your local Pilot Club to find out more about our friendship and service opportunities.