How San Diego Kids Can Get a Donated RC Plane This Summer: RC Pilot Grant Program Details

HobbyTown Santee is excited to announce the upcoming launch of our RC Pilot Grant Program*, offering donated RC planes for kids in San Diego this summer.

What Is the RC Pilot Grant Program?

Thanks to a generous donation from a local RC hobbyist, we are launching a first-of-its-kind RC airplane giveaway for youth in San Diego. The RC Pilot Grant Program was created to make the hobby of remote control aviation accessible to young people who show genuine interest in learning to fly RC planes.

This is more than just a giveaway—it’s a community outreach initiative aimed at building the future of RC aviation in San Diego. Selected participants will receive a donated RC airplane, helping them take their first or next step into this exciting hobby.

Be Notified When Applications Go Live

We’re so glad you’re interested! Fill out this quick form to let us know you’d like to apply. This isn’t the official application*, but we’ll email you directly when applications go live.

RC Pilot Grant Program — Interest Form

What Is RC Aviation and Why Is It Great for Kids?

RC aviation—short for radio-controlled aviation—is a fun and educational hobby that teaches problem-solving, engineering concepts, and hand-eye coordination. Flying remote control airplanes is a great family-friendly activity that builds confidence, focus, and responsibility.

Whether you’re searching for hobbies for kids in San Diego, unique gift ideas for teens, or ways to get your family outdoors and engaged, RC aviation offers a rewarding experience that kids love and parents trust.

Giving Back to the San Diego Youth Community

At HobbyTown Santee, we believe in giving back to our community. The RC Pilot Grant Program is our way of nurturing the next generation of RC pilots, while honoring the legacy of a hobbyist who wanted to inspire young flyers.

Be part of something special—help us take this legacy to new heights.

Ready to Explore More at HobbyTown Santee?

Whether you’re here to learn about our RC Pilot Grant Program or looking for the best hobby store in Santee, HobbyTown Santee is your local destination for RC, toys, models, games, and family fun.

Have questions or want to learn more?
Contact us here or visit us in-store at 9747 Mission Gorge Road, Santee, CA, between BevMo and Petco.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the RC Pilot Grant Program?
San Diego County residents under 18 are eligible. A parent or guardian must apply and pick up the plane in-store.

Are the RC planes ready to fly?
No. The donated RC planes for kids in San Diego are gifted as-is and do not include a remote control. Planes may require repairs or parts  to operate.

How will I know when applications open?
Fill out the interest form in this article and we’ll send you an email when the official application goes live.

*Summary of Terms & Conditions Open to San Diego County residents under 18. RC planes are gifted as-is (no controller included) and may need parts or repairs. Planes are not for resale and must be used to support interest in the RC aviation hobby. Parent/guardian must apply, pick up in-store within 14 days, and supervise use. A separate liability waiver will be required. This interest form is not an official application.