Ray Foundation, Inc. Impact

Who We Help

Ray Foundation, Inc. supports organizations whose programs develop life skills such as honesty, work ethic, self-confidence, and self-discipline in young people. Primarily, but not solely aviation related organizations. Ray Foundation, Inc. impact can be seen in the life skills developed by tomorrow’s leaders served by supported organizations.

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

  • 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

  • The Central Florida Aerospace Academy

    Lakeland, FL

  • Commemorative Air Force

    `` The Commemorative Air Force is honored to carry on the wishes of James C. Ray by providing opportunities for young people to learn and grow through aviation.`` - Hank Coates

  • 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

  • Lakeland Aero-Club

    A high school flying club in Lakeland, FL

  • 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

  • Sun 'n Fun Fly-In

    Lakeland, FL

  • 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

  • John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences

    ``James’ laser focus on getting to know our students and establishing generous scholarship initiatives is truly an inspirational success story.`` – Paul D. Lindseth, Dean of John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences

  • University of North Dakota Aerospace Foundation

    University of North Dakota

  • Williamsburg Aviation Scholarship Program (WASP)

    Williamsburg, VA

  • Wings Over the Rockies

    `Wings Over the Rockies is committed to educate and inspire people of all ages about aviation and space endeavors of the past, present, and future. With the Ray Foundation’s support, we are more able to meet this mission than ever before.”

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!
Discover The Impact Made By EAA’s Ray Aviation Scholarship FOR MALLORY RHODES

Learn About The Ray Foundation, Inc. Impact