Union County families explored the humanitarian work of JAARS, a Waxhaw-based nonprofit, during an event held Saturday.
JAARS uses planes, ships and all-terrain vehicles to deliver missionaries, Bibles, medical supplies and other aid to some of the most inaccessible parts of the world, organizers said. On Saturday it showed off its operations to the local community, organizers said.
During the event, families were able to participate in various activities, including demonstrations of JAARS air, land and sea operations, interactive museum exhibits and hands-on activities for children. Helicopter, airplane and 4×4 rides were also offered.
The event also featured a ‘Meeting of Eagles’ ceremony, where JAARS aviation alumni were recognized for their service, sharing stories and reflections from their time with the organization, organizers said.
Recently, the organization has been involved in projects closer to home, particularly assisting in Hurricane Helene recovery in western North Carolina.
“Not because we are an aid organization, but because we had the skills to get into the mountains. We knew the people we trained there and we were able to help in a big way,” said Steve Russell, president of JAARS.
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