Palm Springs Air Museum receives $1,000 Power of Community grant

In the heart of our beautiful valley lies a mecca of aviation history, education and compassion — the Palm Springs Air Museum (PSAM).

As a nonprofit organization, this institution stands not only as a testament to the triumphs and sacrifices of aviation but also as a beacon of positive influence within our community.

The award-winning museum has become an integral part of our region's cultural tapestry. Beyond its impressive collection of vintage aircraft and artifacts, the museum plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community, education and honoring the bravery of those who have served.

PSAM Vice Chairman/Managing Director Fred Bell tells us: “People from all over the world visit our museum. Veterans find so much to reminisce about here, and both young and old love it. We are very dedicated to keeping the history of aviation alive here.”

Founded on those exact principles of preserving aviation history and inspiring future generations, the museum has carved a niche for itself by seamlessly blending professionalism with compassion.

Each aircraft housed within the museum's walls tells a story — an intimate chronicle of courage, innovation and the indomitable human spirit.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Palm Springs Air Museum is its commitment to education. The museum serves as a living classroom, where students and enthusiasts alike can immerse themselves in the world of aviation. From interactive exhibits detailing the science of flight to educational programs designed for schools, the museum provides a dynamic platform for learning that extends far beyond textbooks.

But perhaps what truly sets this nonprofit apart is its dedication to honoring veterans. The museum doesn't just showcase artifacts; it creates an immersive experience that allows visitors to step into the shoes of those who served.

“The veterans who volunteer here and share their amazing stories and those who merely visit and pass through are so moved by all we showcase, especially our Wall of Honor,” Bell says. “The poignant display features the names of veterans and serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in service to our country.”

The museum creates many exciting events and activities throughout the year to both raise money and to entertain and educate our community. The flower drop on Memorial Day, numerous flyovers and even SNOWTOPIA — the festive holiday event for all ages, which includes Santa arriving in a helicopter.

It’s for this crucial and compassionate mission that we award the Palm Springs Air Museum this week’s Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation Power of Community $1,000 grant so they may continue their incredible work honoring those who have served and educating all of us as to the importance of our aviation history.

“We are proud to foster a deep sense of appreciation for the men and women who have defended our freedoms,” Bell says.

And for that, we all say “Thank you for your service,” and may your mission continue to uplift and inspire our community for generations to come.

To learn more about the Palm Springs Air Museum, visit palmspringsairmuseum.org.

Sandie Newton is an award-winning broadcast journalist who began her career in Los Angeles as cohost of the nationally syndicated show "PM Magazine." She went on to host many local and national shows like "Hollywood Insider" before becoming one of the original anchors for E! and a regular on Hallmark Channel's "Home & Family." In 2017, she moved to the desert, creating and hosting NBCares for six years. She is currently the host of "Desert Chat," a half-hour lifestyle show spotlighting all the good people, events and news in the Coachella Valley. Watch it Sundays at 6:30 p.m. on KESQ, at 10:30 p.m. on FOX 11 and noon Mondays on CW5.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Palm Springs Air Museum receives $1,000 Power of Community grant