I think the primary reason young people are not getting involved is the inconvenience factor. Todays young people have been raised in a culture of instant gratification. Video games and television have been the primary contributors. Why learn how to build a fly a model airplane when you can buy a video game that gives essentially the same experience. The loss of quality flying sites contributes to the incovenience. If you have to drive 15 or 20 miles to find a flying site, why not just buy a cheap electric park flyer and go to the local baseball field? Thats the reality. Until young people see value in the club and the AMA, they're not going to participate. WMAC found value in the insurance. That works for him, and maybe others. But we must find other value as well.

In my club, there are a few Father/Son teams that fly together all the time. This is a great way for the kids to show dad up when their flying skills advance quicker. I've convinced by Brother and his 14 year old son to give it a try. We're going to hold an open house, advertising in the local middle and high schools. If we can convince the younger generation that its FUN and convenient, they'll come in droves. Will they take the reins? Not likely. Not until they reach the point that they become the older generation, and have invested themselves in the hobby. And then they'll be complaining that there isn't anywhere to fly, and young people aren't helping. (cue circle of life music)

Brad