This week, the Delta Air Lines Foundation announced that it is committing more than $16.5 million in charitable contributions to Clayton County over the next five years. James readers likely know but a quick glance at the map will show that Clayton County is home to most of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. It is Georgia’s sixth largest county, and home to more than 3,000 Delta employees.
Grants totaling $13.5 million will go to Clayton County Public Schools through a new Junior Achievement Discovery Center, the Flint River Boys and Girls Club, and scholarships for Clayton County students that are interested in aviation as a career opportunity. Including this funding, the foundation will have given more than $33 million to Clayton County since 2018, when $16 million was given to Clayton County Schools. Since 2015, the foundation given out more than $130 million in grants to nonprofits across the country.
“Delta’s mission to connect the world starts with our commitment to the communities where we live, work and serve,” said Delta Chief External Affairs Officer Peter Carter and trustee of The Delta Air Lines Foundation. “Delta shares Clayton County Public Schools’ mission of providing its students with unmatched opportunities and it’s why we are honored to provide the funding that will give students an opportunity to learn real-world and essential business skills in a simulated environment while inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.”
The rest of the funding, $3 million, will go towards workforce development resources managed by the Clayton County Chamber of Commerce, an increase in funding for Aerotropolis – the economic development arm for the region, and funding to establish a Donor Advised Fund at the Community Foundation. The Junior Achievement Discovery Center will be a facility where students can participate in simulations to learn skills like financial literacy, business management and entrepreneurship.
“The children of Clayton County are our best and brightest, and investing in their future is in our enlightened self-interest,” said Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock. “I am grateful to see this new investment and look forward to continuing and expanding the partnership between Delta and Clayton County for years to come.”
In addition to the $16.5 million, Middle Georgia State University’s School of Aviation will receive $2.5 million for scholarships for Clayton County students and have demonstrated “aptitude” for aviation. The scholarships will potentially cover full tuition and fees, as well as flying instruction for the four years the student is enrolled. Middle Georgia State is part of Delta’s university program at 12 schools across the country that offer the Propel Pilot Career Path Program. The programs can offer a fast track to the Delta cockpit, including mentorship from Delta pilots. Students that complete that program are given a qualified job offer with Delta or its subsidiary, Endeavor Air.
