In order to recognize the leadership of the best model clubs, the Academy has established the AMA Leader Club Awards. These awards can be earned by any AMA Chartered Club, by meeting certain standards of community service and activity.
There are three levels of AMA Leader Clubs: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Once a club meets the minimum criteria, it qualifies for different levels based on performance.
AMA has established 14 goals for Leader Club status. Five of these goals are required. A club that meets the required five goals, plus three of the electives, qualifies as a Bronze level Leader Club. Meeting the required five plus six electives qualifies the club for the Silver level. The ultimate recognition, Gold level, requires that all goals be met. Each goal must be documented. In the event an elective does not pertain to your club's operation, an explanation included with your club's application is all that is necessary for inclusion in the program. For example, a club that is a soaring club exclusively and uses only winches or hi‑starts will not have to deal with sound limitations at their field. Consequently, they remain eligible for Gold status. Their explanation will satisfy elective #5. The same holds true for a free flight club that is not faced with frequency concerns. Elective #1 would be satisfied by an explanation of their specific situation.
Each year your club will be sent forms and instructions by which the club will be able to show the goals met, and the awards will be made and announced in Model Aviation magazine.
When a club qualifies for Leader Club status it receives:
· A certificate from AMA Headquarters.
· A gold, silver or bronze finished pin for each current club member in the first year.
· Published recognition in Model Aviation and listing on AMA Web site, www.modelaircraft.org.
· Inclusion in the annual list of Leader Clubs.
Gold Leader Clubs also receive:
· An engraved ID plate for the club field bulletin board.
· In the year following the fifth and tenth consecutive year of Gold Leader Club status, each club member will receive a special Five or Ten Year patch.
Required Activities for Leader Club Status:
1. AMA Chartered Club for a minimum of five years. Club membership is open to all AMA members and is not limited to a certain number.
2. Club has developed and posted Safety and Operational Rules at its flying site.
3. Club has filed a copy of Safety and Operational Rules at AMA Headquarters.
4. Flying field has separate areas for fliers and spectators, clearly marked as such.
5. The AMA Safety Code is posted and visible at the club field.
Leader Club Electives:
1. Club has implemented and enforces a frequency control plan that allows all 50 RC channels to be used at its club flying site where RC is allowed.
2. Club has implemented an AMA Adopt‑A‑School program or donates a Model Aviation magazine subscription to schools or libraries.
3. Club conducts a review of the AMA Safety Code at a club, meeting at least once a year.
4. Club sponsors an annual public event, such as a mall show, flying show, or demonstration.
5. Club monitors noise levels and/or institutes club field rules such as a requirement that models be operated at a maximum of 90 db at 9 feet.
6. Club has created an informational handout and provides it to the general public.
7. Club participates in charity programs or public fund‑raising events.
8. Club has a formal lease or agreement for use of its flying site or owns its site.
9. Club participates in the AMA Introductory Pilot Program or has its own instruction program.
To apply for a LEADER CLUB award contact:
ERIN DOBBS at AMA