Ray Foundation, Inc. Impact
Ray Foundation, Inc. supports aviation-related organizations whose programs help young people develop life skills such as honesty, work ethic, self-confidence, and self-discipline. Our founder, James C. Ray, felt very strongly that flight training, courtesy of the US Army Air Corps in 1942, instilled in him the traits and drive which made him a successful aviator, and successful individual. Ray Foundation strives to provide that opportunity for others.
1250
Grants Funded
233
Impacted Youth
76
Years In Service
416
Institutions Awarded
Ray Foundation is proud to support organizations such as the following legacy recipients:
Aerospace Center For Excellence
``...I have had the unique opportunity to witness first-hand the positive and life changing impact the Ray Foundation has had on our young people and our community as a whole...`` – Gene Conrad, President & CEO
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Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
``Ray Foundation has engaged with AOPA to build a sustainable program with measurable results worthy of Ray Foundation’s continued investment.`` – Mark Baker, AOPA President & CEO
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Commemorative Air Force
``The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is proud to carry forward the vision of James C. Ray, whose belief in the potential of young people continues to inspire us every day.`` - David Oliver
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The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)
``James saw EAA’s programs as a way to encourage young people to pursue aviation, and the Ray Foundation continues that important work in his honor today.`` - Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO & Chairman of the Board
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Aviation Lab at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
“…Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum was able to inspire the community in which we are located to work together to develop a new resource to advance academic proficiency and personal leadership…” Elissa Lines
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Southeastern Guide Dogs
``The Ray Foundation helped us build the most comprehensive service dog facilities in the world to give hope to those who cannot see and those who have seen too much.`` - Titus Herman, Southeastern Guide Dogs CEO
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John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences
``James C. Ray and the Ray Foundation have been pivotal in the success of the students, faculty, and staff.`` – Robert J Kraus, Dean of John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences
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Wings Over the Rockies
``The Ray Foundation’s support has been truly transformative for Wings Over the Rockies™.” - Marcus A. Harshaw, Jr.
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YOUTH SPOTLIGHT
Mallory Rhodes | Ray Scholars Program
When I was little I had talked about being a flight attendant because I loved traveling and I loved flying. After being part of the aerospace engineering class and the Eagles Nest project build I realized the dream of being a pilot was much more achievable than I always believed! I was really driven into aviation due to all the encouragement and guidance I have received from the mentors and my flight instructor!