August 30, 2007. When Nancy Rivard speaks, people listen.
Nancy Rivard, Founder of Airline Ambassadors International,
speaking at VOW event on Aug. 30, 2007.
Through the organization Airline Ambassadors International (www.airlineamb.org), which she founded in 1993, Nancy and teams of flight attendants and “civilian” volunteers deliver much-needed aid to stricken areas around the globe.
Her first venture took Nancy to a refugee camp in Croatia, where the people appreciated her personal touch as much as they appreciated the simple gifts. Following that success, Nancy decided to take action every month. To date, Airline Ambassadors is working in 52 countries and has delivered $50m in aid through 478 missions. The United States Congress has commended AAI three times for the good work they do.
The mission volunteers include doctors, nurses, teachers, clowns, and other members of the public who are moved to join the program. Global leaders, including Bishop Desmond Tutu and former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, support AAI’s efforts. The organization works directly with governments to supply the aid.
Examples of the programs that AAI has developed are:
- A crèche at Nkundusi, a Zulu Village in KwaZulu Natal.
- A community radio station in Nepal
- In El Savador, a sewing project that trains women so they can become self-sufficient with their own trade.
- The first educational facility in Manjaharia, India
- In Minnesota, a program to assist displaced Native Americans return to the work force, and learn appropriate skills.
Following the recent Peruvian earthquake, AAI was the first group on the ground delivering aid and relief. The group continues to visit the worst hit areas every week. Is language a problem? Nancy Rivard replies: “No, because we speak a language of the heart.”
VOW’s event raised $500 for Airline Ambassadors.
