For Immediate Release
AFW Media Contact:
Jessica Hayes
Director of Communications
[email protected]
(323) 332-1610
Angel Flight West Celebrates Record-Breaking $1 Million Milestone at Endeavor Awards
[LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA] — [MAY 25, 2026] — Angel Flight West (AFW) is proud to announce that its 12th Annual Endeavor Awards fundraiser raised more than $1 million in pledges and commitments in support of the organization’s mission to provide free medical transportation for patients in need. This marks the first time in Endeavor Awards history that the event has reached this extraordinary milestone.
The evening also celebrated several outstanding honorees whose leadership, service, and commitment embody the spirit of AFW’s mission, including Will Cutter and Cutter Aviation, Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, Chris Bennett, Volunteer Pilot with Angel Flight West, and Jerry Hill, Volunteer Pilot with Challenge Air for Kids & Friends.
This historic achievement was made possible through the collective generosity and leadership of AFW’s board members, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and supporters. Contributions came in many forms, including sponsorships, silent and live auction donations, hosted tables in honor of volunteer pilots, and personal invitations that expanded support for the evening’s mission. Several sponsored tables raised more than $50,000 during the event.
“Reaching this incredible milestone is a testament to the generosity, passion, and unwavering commitment of this extraordinary community. What began as a bold vision has become a powerful reality – and together, we are proving what’s possible when people rally around a mission that truly changes lives,” said Emily Deaton, Chair of the Angel Flight West Board of Directors.
Funds raised through the Endeavor Awards directly support Angel Flight West’s mission of arranging free, non-emergency medical flights for children and adults who need access to healthcare far from home. The success of this year’s event ensures AFW can continue serving thousands of families through the dedication of volunteer pilots, drivers, commercial airline partners, and supporters across the western United States.
“In today’s economic climate, this level of generosity is truly remarkable,” said AFW Executive Director, Mary Hunter. “It reflects both the growing need for our services and the deep belief within our community that access to healthcare transportation changes lives.”
Every contribution made during the Endeavor Awards reinforces the strength of the AFW community and its commitment to helping patients access critical medical care with less burdens and more hope.
AFW extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the evening possible, including donors, sponsors, volunteers, staff, and board members whose leadership and commitment continue to propel the mission forward.
“Together, we are making an immeasurable difference in the lives of the patients and families we serve,” said Hunter.
AFW also extends special thanks to its major sponsors: Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, The Marshall and Margherite McComb Foundation, AOPA, ATC Consultants, UCLA Health, Warfield Distillery, Cutter Aviation, Spear Vineyards & Winery, Huntsman Cancer Foundation, Kenny & Irene Kato, The Si Robin Foundation, and the Zemeckis Foundation.
The 13th Annual Endeavor Awards will take place in Los Angeles on May 7, 2027.
About Angel Flight West
Angel Flight West coordinates free non-emergency air travel for children and adults with serious medical conditions and other compelling needs. Through a network of volunteer pilots and commercial airline partners, Angel Flight West helps patients access life-saving medical care and other essential services across the western United States. For more information, visit angelflightwest.org.
