Today we’d like to introduce you to John Capra.
Hi John, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Tailwinds of Hope Non Profit was created to honor the memory of Zachary Capra, a future commercial airline pilot. Zachary was killed April 4, 2018, when the small engine plane he was flying crashed just after takeoff in Daytona Beach, Florida while he was conducting his final check ride to obtain his commercial pilot’s license. On that clear morning, just shortly after takeoff, the left wing separated from the aircraft and crashed in an open field. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examiner John Azma also perished in this crash.
Growing up Zachary was a devoted athlete, playing ice hockey, lacrosse and golf. Zachary served in the United States Navy from July 2012 through August 2016 serving four years aboard the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate conducting aircraft launch and recovery. Zachary completed 2 tours of the Persian Gulf. This is where Zachary decided to pursue his dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot once his Navy commitment was complete. Zachary’s love of travel also began with the opportunities the Navy afforded him and planned to continue his travel experiences through his years as a pilot.
In August 2016, Zachary began his pursuit of becoming a commercial airline pilot and began his education at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. Zachary was on the road to success when he was tragically killed on that April morning just one month shy of graduation. Zachary was awarded a posthumous degree of Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics. He was so close to accomplishing his dream and to solidify his future he had a short list of 2018 goals on his refrigerator which simply stated 1) Finish Commercial License 2) Finish Degree 3) Get a Job. All achievable goals. The Zachary Capra foundation awards an annual scholarship to aspiring pilots who share in his passion and are pursuing a career in aviation. Three additional scholarships are awarded to deserving high school students pursuing a four-year degree or attending a technical college. One scholarship is awarded to a deserving football player at Adams State University. All these scholarships are awarded in Zachary’s memory.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has been a great journey, as any business you have obstacles and you solve those issues to become relevant.
As any Non-Profit organization finding new revenue sources. Each that gets more difficult but we have found four fundraisers that help with that.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Our Mission
Mission
The organization is committed to providing scholarships to hardworking, compassionate, and goal-oriented young adults, enabling them to pursue their educational and career ambitions.
The Foundation currently provides $27,500 in scholarships annually
Vision
Tailwinds of Hope transforms personal tragedy into a powerful opportunity for growth and achievement. By supporting students in their pursuit of education and careers, the organization not only honors Zachary’s legacy but also empowers the next generation to soar to new heights. Tailwinds of Hope believes that with the right support and resources, young adults can achieve their dreams and contribute positively to their communities, carrying forward the spirit of determination and hope that Zachary embodied.
Zachary’s Legacy
“Keep pushing, reach your set goals.” – Zachary Capra
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I am part of two networking opportunities. BNI has been a great partner and have received a great ROI. We are also a part of the Westminster Chamber of Commerce. This partnership has been great and have received a lot of friendship and a great ROI but also have received several awards with the Chamber,
Pricing:
- $250-$5000 Sponsorship available.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tailwindsofhope.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TailwindsOfHope
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TailwindsOfHope/#
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tailwinds-of-hope-zachary-michael-capra-memorial-foundation/
- Twitter: https://x.com/TailwindsOfHope
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCogzuk65JBIPcP0oMfc2wSQ
