Virginia Wing Civil Air Patrol Supports Outreach and Operations at HEAV Convention
RICHMOND, Va. — Members of Virginia Wing Civil Air Patrol provided operational support and public outreach during the 2026 Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV) Convention, assisting event organizers while showcasing the organization's aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services missions.
Cadets and senior members from multiple squadrons across Virginia volunteered throughout the event, supporting convention operations and engaging with thousands of students, parents and educators.
Before and during the convention, Civil Air Patrol members assisted vendors and organizers with loading, unloading and other logistical tasks necessary to set up the large-scale event. Cadets also staffed convention entrances, conducting badge checks and helping maintain smooth traffic flow throughout the venue.
"Standing at the doors wasn't just about checking badges; it was about representing the professionalism of Civil Air Patrol to thousands of visitors," a participating cadet said.
The Civil Air Patrol exhibit area attracted families and students interested in learning more about aviation, emergency services and STEM opportunities. Emergency Medical Services cadets displayed medical equipment and discussed the training, responsibilities and leadership opportunities available through the program.
A popular attraction at the exhibit was the Soar High flight simulation station, where cadets guided participants through virtual flight experiences. The simulator provided an opportunity to introduce visitors to Civil Air Patrol orientation flights, aviation careers and the principles of flight.
Visitors also explored hands-on STEM activities, including hydraulics kits and model rockets. The interactive exhibits allowed students to learn engineering and aerospace concepts through practical application and experimentation.
In addition to engaging the public, the convention provided opportunities for mentorship and professional development. During breaks in visitor traffic, senior members met with cadets to discuss educational goals, career aspirations and advancement opportunities within Civil Air Patrol. 
The convention highlighted the value of collaboration among Virginia Wing squadrons while advancing Civil Air Patrol's core missions. Through volunteer service, STEM education and community engagement, members helped introduce new audiences to opportunities in aviation, leadership and emergency services.
The annual HEAV Convention remains one of Virginia Wing's largest outreach opportunities, allowing members to connect with families across the Commonwealth and inspire the next generation of aerospace leaders.
About Virginia Wing
Civil Air Patrol's Virginia Wing is home to 21 squadrons spread throughout the Commonwealth and has approximately 2,500 members, 13 light aircraft, 6 small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS), and 28 multi-mission vehicles. These assets are available to federal, state, and local governments, as well as to emergency responders and law enforcement agencies to perform search and rescue, homeland security, disaster relief, humanitarian assistance, and counter-drug missions. For more information on Virginia Wing, visit the wing’s website at https://vawg.cap.gov.
About Civil Air Patrol
Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later, Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for the purposes of youth development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.
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For More Information:
2d Lt Sabrina Etienne at PA@vawg.cap.gov
