How We Give Back

At the Gallup Aerostat Society, giving back to our community is as important to us as the joy of ballooning itself. We are proud to support schools, families, and organizations throughout the Southwest through a variety of outreach and charitable efforts.

Inspiring Students

We provide free school demonstrations to students from preschool through college. These programs may include walk-through balloons, radio-controlled balloon flights, and static displays of our balloon Koshare. Each demonstration is designed to spark curiosity, inspire imagination, and share the magic of ballooning with the next generation.

Supporting Local Families

Every Thanksgiving, our members deliver “Grandmother Baskets” filled with food and treats to local families around our flying area. This tradition is our way of saying thank you to the community for welcoming us into their skies and landscapes.

Helping Children in Need

We are committed supporters of Manuelito’s Children’s Home, a safe haven for displaced children. The Society purchases propane for the home’s use, and all profits from our t-shirt sales are shared with them.

Holiday Giving

During the Red Rock Balloon Rally, we collect toys for Toys for Tots, helping bring joy to local children during the holiday season.

Fighting Hunger

Our Brunch Awards Ceremony directly benefits the Gallup Community Pantry. In 2024, with the generosity of both local and visiting pilots, we raised enough funds to provide 812 meals to families in need.

Supporting Ballooning Beyond Gallup

The Gallup Aerostat Society also provides sponsorship to the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum and supports the AAAA “Friends and Lovers” Rally, strengthening the wider ballooning community.