10% charity’s unique goal draws attention

Sion Worley, Reporter

If only 10 percent of Olathe’s population were to donate a simple one dollar each to a charity, the total would reach $13,547.

Kali Ray, senior, wants to do just that. Her cause, the “10 Percent Charity,” is aimed at collecting donations for the Kansas Suicide Prevention Resource Center, promoting aid for people who suffer from depression or suicidal thoughts. Although most people are skeptical at first, they quickly warm up to the idea once she is able to explain the charity goal in detail.

Although she has only raised approximately $300, Ray is hoping to continue the charity for at least one more year, working towards legally legitimizing the charity so that businesses are able to sponsor and promote it legally.

“It’s a work in progress,” Ray said. “I’m currently working to complete a 501(c)(3) application in order to legitimize the charity.”

Although Ray has not had any businesses sponsor her yet, she has been working closely with her church and the school district to promote her cause.

“Hopefully by next year, I will be able to give presentations at each one of Olathe’s schools to promote awareness and understanding during National Suicide Prevention Week,” Ray said.