Our History

In 1981, three people shared the dream of using empty seats on corporate aircraft to transport cancer patients to treatment centers nationwide. Leonard M. Greene, founder and former president of Safe Flight Instrument Corporation, Priscilla (Pat) H. Blum, a licensed commercial pilot, and Jay N. Weinberg, then owner of a Mt. Vernon, NY Avis Car Rental franchise together developed the idea of asking corporations to accept these patients as guest passengers.

As cancer survivors, Blum and Weinberg knew how expensive and grueling transportation was for patients who needed to fly long distances for specialized treatment. Greene, having lost his wife to this deadly disease, became actively involved in the cause by contributing his foundation, funds, and business expertise.

One by one, corporations across America were asked to participate by donating empty seats on their jets and one by one, many joined. Now, CAN works with over 500 corporations, including half of the Fortune 100.

Since its inception, Corporate Angel Network has received numerous awards and recognitions:

• Debartolo Family Foundation Spirit of Humanity Award Recipient

• President's Volunteer Action Award, the highest volunteer award from the President of the United States

• Special Salute from the U. S. Chamber of Commerce

• President's Private Sector Initiative Award

• Inducted into the San Diego Air & Space Museum

• Wings Club Award Recipient

• An NBAA Charity of Choice