Foundation Events & Activities

Register for Events!

(press the “+” to see the drop-down list of events.

NOTICE: Parents must complete all event registration using the registration zone and/or the forms specified by the event Officers in Charge (OICs).

CAP Registration Zone

Learn more about weekly events.

  • Our (cadet-led/adult supervised) weekly meetings are the cornerstone of the cadet experience, taking place for two hours each week and bringing together all unit members. Each meeting is split into two halves with a snack break in between. During these sessions, cadets rotate through a diverse program that includes drill and ceremonies, aerospace education, emergency services training, character development, leadership skills, safety briefings, and team-building activities. Each meeting is thematic and designed to help cadets steadily build their skills and confidence. This is truly the foundation of our CAP program, where cadets come together, learn, and grow every week.

  • Each week, a rotating team of five cadets and two senior members supports the Buffalo Rotary Club's gatherings. Our cadets help set up the meeting space, open the session, and assist with collecting donations. They also take part in reciting the Rotary prayer, presenting the flag, and leading the Pledge of Allegiance. After these duties, cadets join the Rotarians for lunch and fellowship, building strong community ties and leadership skills..

Learn more about monthly events.

  • Each month, we host a fun and informal social event where cadets and their families can relax and build camaraderie outside of uniform. Whether it’s a pizza party, a bowling night at Bowl-a-rama with unlimited games and food, or renting out a skating rink complete with arcade access, there’s always something for everyone. These gatherings are a great way for everyone to bond, have fun, and enjoy some well-deserved downtime together.

Learn more about Summer events.

  • CIVIL AIR PATROL AIRSHOW BIVOUAC SAFETY INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

    What Is an Airshow Bivouac?

    An airshow bivouac is a supervised two-night camping experience where Civil Air Patrol cadets support airshow operations during the day and camp overnight on the airfield. Cadets work alongside CAP senior members, learn about aviation, develop leadership skills, and enjoy the airshow while participating in a safe and structured environment.

    Sleeping Arrangements

    ✅ Cadets sleep in individual tents.

    ✅ Male and female cadets are assigned to separate camping areas.

    ✅ Cadets only change clothes inside their own tents.

    ✅ Cadets wear comfortable clothing (typically shorts and a t-shirt) while at the campsite and sleep in pajamas.

    ✅ During duty hours, cadets wear their CAP uniform while working assigned airshow posts.

    Hygiene & Personal Care

    ✅ Portable handwashing and sink stations are available for brushing teeth and washing faces. NO SHOWERS

    ✅ Cadets are instructed to bring personal hygiene supplies and wipes.

    Adult Supervision & Safety

    Safety is our highest priority.

    ✅ Male and female adult staff members are present at all times.

    ✅ Only authorized Civil Air Patrol personnel are permitted in the bivouac area.

    ✅ All CAP senior members undergo background screening and fingerprint-based checks.

    ✅ CAP maintains some of the strictest youth protection policies in youth-serving organizations.

    The Rule of Three

    Civil Air Patrol follows strict Cadet Protection policies.

    ✅ Cadets are never alone one-on-one with an adult.

    ✅ This applies regardless of gender.

    ✅ Example: a female adult staff member will not be alone with a female cadet.

    ✅ CAP follows the "Rule of Three"—interactions always involve at least three individuals (two cadets and one adult).

    This policy helps protect both cadets and adult volunteers.

    Communication With Parents

    ✅ Cadets keep their cell phones with them throughout the event.

    ✅ While on duty, cadets may not be able to answer calls immediately because they are working around active aircraft and flight operations.

    ✅ Parents may always contact event leadership if they need to reach their cadet.

    ✅ If a parent calls, staff will either:

    • Locate the cadet as soon as practical, or

    • Let the parent know when the cadet will be off duty and available to call back.

    On-Site Leadership

    Each event will have an Officer in Charge and the parents will know how to contact them.

    Dr. Chris Manning will be on-site throughout the event.

    ✅ Cadets know where leadership is located at all times.

    ✅ Dr. Manning's RV is parked adjacent to the bivouac area and serves as a constant leadership presence.

    ✅ Senior members continuously monitor the campsite, duty locations, and cadet activities throughout the event.

    What Cadets Experience

    During the weekend, cadets:

    ✈️ Assist with airshow operations and aircraft marshalling support.

    ✈️ Interact with pilots, aviation professionals, and military personnel.

    ✈️ Enjoy the airshow during designated free periods.

    ✈️ Build leadership, teamwork, responsibility, and confidence.

    ✈️ Experience a safe, structured, and memorable aviation environment.

    Our Commitment

    The goal of the airshow bivouac is to provide cadets with an outstanding aerospace and leadership experience while maintaining the highest standards of safety, supervision, and youth protection. Every aspect of the event is designed to ensure cadets are safe, supported, and able to enjoy a unique Civil Air Patrol opportunity.

    Our cadets enjoy multiple camping opportunities throughout the year. Some of these are emergency services bivouacs, where cadets learn essential survival and search-and-rescue skills in a hands-on environment. In addition, during summer airshows, cadets often camp on-site overnight, providing support and getting a unique experience of working the event. These camping adventures not only teach practical skills but also foster teamwork and lasting friendships among the cadets.

  • Once a year, we host elegant formal events where cadets get to dress up in their blues or formal attire and come together for a memorable evening. These Military Balls and Dining-Ins are a highlight of our year, featuring a formal dinner, camaraderie, and the presentation of promotions and recognition awards. It’s a wonderful opportunity for cadets to celebrate their achievements in a distinguished and festive setting.

  • Each year, our cadets have the opportunity to participate in statewide cadet conferences and a week-long summer encampment. The conference is a three-day, two-night event that brings together cadets from all over the state—and sometimes even the country—offering them a chance to learn, network, and put their training into practice in a dynamic setting. Similarly, the summer encampment is a seven-day, six-night immersive experience where cadets travel, stay overnight, and engage in intensive training and teamwork. Both events are fantastic opportunities for cadets to apply what they’ve learned, meet peers from other units, and grow as leaders.