(Las Vegas, NV) Kelli Kristo, Executive Director of Project 150, leads a non-profit dedicated to supporting homeless, displaced, and disadvantaged high school students — ensuring they have the basic necessities that so many of us take for granted.
After years of non-profit work in Southern Nevada, Kelli felt deeply moved by Project 150’s mission. “High school students—it’s a tough subject,” she shared. “To find out that some don’t have parents or guardians, that they’re couch surfing or even literally homeless—it was something I had to get behind.”
For many of these teens, the struggle goes beyond academics. “It’s hard enough to be a kid, let alone be homeless,” Kelli explained. “We make sure they have everything they need to go to school, feel confident, and blend in with their peers — even when their lives are anything but ordinary.”
Project 150 began 15 years ago after a local news story revealed that 150 homeless students at a Las Vegas high school would be without basic necessities and food during winter break. A few local businessmen sprang into action, gathering coats and fast food gift cards — and soon realized the need was far greater.
“Other schools started calling,” Kelli said. “We call ourselves the Accidental Charity because we never meant to be here 15 years later serving over 7,000 students across Southern Nevada.”
When people hear “homeless,” Kelli noted, they often picture adults on the streets. “That’s so far from the reality for a high school kid,” she explained. “We have students who sleep on the RTC bus every night because it’s safe, warm, and out of the elements.”
These young people are often invisible — 13, 14, 15 years old, trying to navigate life alone. That’s where Project 150 steps in, offering not just basic necessities but stability, dignity, and hope.
At Project 150’s Betty’s Boutique, students can choose five free outfits a month, full-size hygiene products, food, and school supplies. But the organization goes far beyond that — offering college scholarships that fund all four years, hosting a prom closet to make special events accessible, and partnering with other organizations to find safe housing for students in crisis.
Most students find Project 150 through word of mouth. “They talk to each other at school,” Kelli said with a smile. “Our boutiques are like the mall for them — they come in groups, they FaceTime friends while shopping. It’s something they look forward to.”
The organization also maintains a strong presence on social media and works closely with the Clark County School District, serving all 75 local high schools.
For Kelli, leading Project 150 has been both heartwarming and emotional. “I’ve seen students come to us as freshmen with nothing, and then I’ve watched them walk across the stage at graduation — and even through college,” she said. “Some come back later to volunteer. It’s amazing to see it come full circle.”
One story that stands out to Kelli is of a student who used Project 150’s services during high school, went on to college, and is now a doctor. “We paid for his education all the way through,” she said proudly.
Kelli emphasized that there are many ways to get involved:
- Volunteer to experience the impact firsthand.
- Donate clothing, especially men’s items, which are always in short supply.
- Give financially, as every dollar goes a long way toward helping fill critical gaps.
“If I could speak directly to a student who feels forgotten,” Kelly said, “I’d say, 'We see you, we hear you, and we’re here to meet you where you are. Don’t be afraid to ask for help — it can truly change your life.'”
Kelli encourages everyone to learn more by visiting Project 150 online. “We share our impact reports and student stories there,” she said. “If you’re looking to change a high school student’s life for the better, this is the organization to do it.”
Project 150 serves over 7,000 high school students across 75 schools in the Las Vegas area, proving that with a little compassion and community, every student can have the support they deserve.
