The Corporate Angel Network (CAN) completed more than 2,000 flights in 2023, reported the nonprofit dedicated to transporting cancer patients to and from treatment via business jets. These are among the 67,000-plus cancer patient flights that the organization has facilitated since its inception 42 years ago.
Founded in 1981, the organization was launched to provide an opportunity for business aircraft operators to volunteer empty seats on their business aircraft to cancer patients seeking treatment. Leonard Greene, founder and former president of Safe Flight Instrument Corp.; Priscilla "Pat" Blum, a licensed commercial pilot; and Jay Weinberg, then owner of a Mt. Vernon, New York Avis Car Rental franchise, brought this vision to life. Now, more than 500 corporations, including half of the Fortune 100 companies, participate in CAN.
CAN brought in nearly $500,000 from its primary fundraiser, the Fund an Angel reception and silent auction, held on October 18 during NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas. Donations came from sponsors, winning auction bidders (and donated auction items), and attendees. The next such event will be held on October 24 during NBAA-BACE 2024.