About Rae of Sunshine

White background with subtle, blurred lighter sections.

Our Story


Rae of Sunshine KY was founded in loving memory of Taylor Rae Nolan, a radiant young woman whose life was cut short by suicide in 2019. In the wake of this tragedy, her mother, Taylora Schlosser, turned grief into purpose—creating a nonprofit committed to breaking the stigma around mental health and spreading kindness through action.

Our Mission


Eliminating the stigma of mental health & increasing access and resources to Social & Emotional Health support resources through positive acts of kindness.

Our Vision


We envision a world where every person feels seen, supported, and empowered to prioritize their mental health without fear or shame.

Abstract white gradient with a curved shape at the top.

Meet Taylor Rae


Taylor was a bright, caring, and compassionate young woman attending the University of Kentucky. Her smile could light up a room, and her kindness was unforgettable. Today, her memory fuels a movement to bring light into others’ lives, even in their darkest moments.


Read More


White background with subtle, blurred lighter sections.

Why We Exist


Too many people struggle in silence. Rae of Sunshine KY exists to remind them they’re not alone—and that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.


Our Values – The S.M.I.L.E. Framework


  • S – Your Story matters
  • M – Move, motivate, and manufacture joy every day
  • I – Illuminate your surroundings with positivity
  • L – Be a Light for others
  • E – Use your Energy to uplift and support


What We Do


  • 🧠 Mental Health Scholarships
  • 😊 SMILE Clubs in Schools
  • 📣 Educational Outreach & Speaking Engagements
    Each initiative is designed to empower youth, support mental wellness, and create compassionate communities.


Our impact in numbers

S.M.I.L.E Clubs Launched in Schools

57+

In Scholarships Awarded

$50,000+

Individuals Reached

70,000+

Every item you purchase helps us spread awareness and fund our mission. Whether it's a t-shirt, hat, or sticker, your support helps us reach more students, fund more scholarships, and spark more SMILES. Wear your Rae gear proudly—you're helping us change lives, one act of kindness at a time.

Purchase merchandise

Outline of a white dove in flight.

With as little as $5, you can help us bring hope and healing to students across Kentucky. Your donation supports mental health outreach, scholarships for future counselors, and the expansion of SMILE Clubs in schools. Every dollar makes a difference—and every story matters.

Donate

Outline of a human hand, palm facing up.
Abstract white gradient, suggesting a soft, blurred shape or form against a bright backdrop.

Rae of Sunshine: A Mother's Light Through the Darkness of Suicide


We envision a world where every person feels seen, supported, and empowered to prioritize their mental health without fear or shame.


White background with subtle, blurred lighter sections.

The Hearts Behind the Mission

Woman with blonde hair speaking into a microphone, gesturing with her hands. She's wearing a blue shirt that says

Taylora Schlosser

Founder / Executive Director
A woman with short dark hair, wearing a brown sweater and silver earrings, smiles slightly. She is set against a plain white background.

Sue Lang

Program Coordinator
Blonde woman in a white shirt looks directly at the camera. She has simple hoop earrings and a neutral expression.

Suzana Müller

Outreach & Communications Manager
A young woman with long brown hair smiles at the camera, wearing a gray button-down shirt, against a plain white background.

Laura Costa

Fundraising & Development Coordinator

Our mission

At Rae of Sunshine KY, our mission is to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health and expand access to social and emotional health support. We do this by promoting positive acts of kindness, building compassionate communities, and empowering individuals to speak openly about their mental well-being. Through outreach, education, and connection, we shine light where it’s needed most.

Corporate Partners Who Shine

Abstract white gradient, suggesting a soft, blurred shape or form against a bright backdrop.

Consider partnering with us

Your business has the power to spark real change. When you partner with Rae of Sunshine KY, you’re not just supporting a nonprofit—you’re investing in mental health awareness, kindness-driven programs, and brighter futures for students across Kentucky.


From local outreach to statewide impact, your sponsorship helps us expand our reach and continue the mission in honor of Taylor Rae.


Let’s shine brighter—together.


Learn more about sponsorship opportunities →