Frequently Asked Questions

Who governs the Foundation?

Since the Beacon Foundation was created by NWA flight Attendants,it is governed by a Board of Directors made up of volunteer Flight Attendants. The Board establishes the financial goals and operating policies of the Foundation. At each base, a committee made up of volunteer Flight Attendants conducts local fundraising activities. They also handle Flight Attendants' requests for assistance at their respective base. Requests for assistance are approved based on the Foundation's policies,I.R.S. guidelines, and recommendations from the local committees. Board of Directors, committee volunteers are full-time NWA Flight Attendants.

Who provides the funds for assistance?

Nearly all of the Beacon Foundations financial support is funded through payroll deduction from NWA Flight Attendants. The Foundations goal is to give every dollar that is donated through payroll deductions back to respective NWA Flight Attendants and their families needing assistance. Administrative expenses are paid by fundraising and grants received from various sources, one such source being the Mark D. Hostetter and Alexander N.Habib Foundation.

Are my donations tax deductible?

Because the Beacon Foundation is officially recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (I.R.S.) as a 501 (3) (c) tax-exempt non-profit corporation, all donations are tax deductible. The Beacon Foundation is held accountable to the I.R.S. and to the state of Minnesota. The I.R.S. ensures that we run the organization as outlined in our policies and procedures while Federal and State laws assure our accountability.

How much can I donate?

As with all donations to people in need, however much one can donate,whether it is $2.00 or $50.00, is appreciated. Many NWA Flight Attendants have already signed up to have $5.00 automatically withdrawn from their payroll check twice a month.

Just imagine what your donation can do for your fellow co-workers. If every NWA Flight Attendant donated one dollar each month for one year, $132,000 would be available for Flight Attendants in need. Think how many Flight Attendants could benefit from your donation.

Donating is easy. Just fill out a Beacon Foundation authorization form (available at your base) and your donation will be withdrawn from your paycheck automatically.

How does one apply for assistance?

Applications are available from your local committee representative at each base. To contact your representative, email or phone from the Your Base Contact web link or drop a note in the Beacon Foundation box located at your base and you will be contacted. Your application will be submitted to the committee for review.

Once the application is reviewed and approved by the local committee, a request for funds is submitted to the Beacon Foundation office. Every effort is made to process the request as quickly as possible. Details of each applicant's financial need will be maintained in the strictest confidence.