After years of collaboration, correspondence, and building meaningful connections, Syracuse Inner City Rotary Club (SICRC) is excited to announce the reinstatement of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) hybrid program in a local city public school. The late founder of SICRC, Theardis Martino, would be proud to know that his project is making an impact today.
At the heart of this initiative is an investment in our students and their future. Our goal is to introduce inner-city youth to the opportunities, experiences, and possibilities that come with the Civil Air Patrol at an early age—planting seeds for leadership, personal growth, and future success.
We are especially pleased to have our own SICRC member, Muath Kinsey, serving as the program facilitator. Muath brings enthusiasm, ambition, and a genuine ability to connect with young people. His approachable nature helps students feel comfortable, engaged, and encouraged to explore their potential.
The program relaunched on October 13th and is offered twice per week to participants for after school enrichment. The program is free to students, includes supper, STEM kits and uniforms. Through this program, students will be introduced to practical leadership skills, aerospace education, STEM learning, teamwork, discipline, and other important character-building experiences. Eventually, the students will even earn a trip to the official Syracuse Cadet Squadron at the Hancock Field Air National Guard Base.
Although the students are not yet old enough to officially join the Civil Air Patrol, this program provides an exciting early introduction to the organization and what it has to offer. By the time they reach sixth grade and become eligible to participate in the formal CAP program, they will already have a foundation of knowledge, familiarity, and enthusiasm to help them take that next step.
We are still accepting volunteers, visitors, STEM advocates and other part-time instructors. If you would like to see how you can get involved, please email us at SICRC13205@gmail.com.
This is about more than introducing students to aviation. It's about introducing them to opportunity, building confidence, developing leadership, and helping them see what is possible for their future.
Syracuse Inner City Rotary is proud to help create pathways that prepare our young people for tomorrow, starting today!
