Since 2001, Comair, a subsidiary of Delta Airlines, has played an integral role in a variety of Kicks For Kids fundraisers and events. Not only has Comair handled the flight arrangements for out-of-town celebrities playing in the Celebrity Golf Classic each year, the company also provides flight certificates for the top producer in the RGI River Run’s pledge program and an auction item at the Celebrity Golf Classic’s dinner, while also continuing to recruit outstanding Comair employees to volunteer with KFK.

Comair’s support over the years is due in large part to Dave Soaper, Senior Vice President of Aircraft Operations, and Donna Herron, who has worked with the airline for 19 years. Donna became involved with KFK, having known its Founder, Doug Pelfrey, since he was a teenager. “I just think the charity is amazing,” Donna said, “They don’t have a mission statement that pigeon holes the organization. They have the opportunity to help kids in every way, shape or form.” At the time, Dave had been searching for a charity Comair could sponsor, and was drawn to the work Donna was doing with KFK. “I found it very interesting that sports celebrities were involved and there was a definite passion for children. The money spent on the children was the large portion of where the dollars were directed,” Dave recalls.

Since then, Comair has provided several kids with unforgettable experiences, such as enjoying a Reds’ Game in the company’s suite at the ballpark. Most recently, Comair/Delta gave 85 children the opportunity to fly or taxi on an airplane during KFK’s 1st ‘Operation North Pole’. “You always want to make an impression that children will remember for the rest of their lives, and for it being many of their first time flying, most kids will remember it forever,” Dave stated.

Dave currently serves as a Board member, while Donna is on both the Golf and Christmas Committees. KFK would like to thank them, Beverly Wolfer and everyone involved with Comair for their continued support and partnership!