97 Percent Org Inc

Overview

97 Percent Org Inc is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization designated as a 501(c)(3), focusing on educational purposes related to gun safety and community engagement.

Mission and Vision

The organization aims to reduce gun deaths in the United States by engaging gun owners and non-gun owners in conversations about gun safety. It emphasizes the importance of involving gun owners in the dialogue to find common ground and develop effective policies.

Leadership and Structure

The leadership includes individuals from diverse backgrounds such as national security, the military, public policy, and community advocacy. Key figures include Olivia Troye, a former advisor to Vice President Mike Pence, and Richard Aborn, who previously served with the Brady Campaign.

Financials

As of the latest available data, 97 Percent Org Inc primarily relies on contributions as its source of revenue, with significant executive compensation but no reported income from program services or investments. The organization has a modest asset base compared to its liabilities.

Controversies

Despite presenting itself as a centrist organization focusing on gun safety, 97 Percent Org Inc has faced criticism from various quarters, including gun rights groups. These groups describe the organization as anti-gun, comparing it to other groups like the Brady Campaign. The name "97 Percent" originates from a discredited poll suggesting widespread support for universal background checks among gun owners.

Activities and Initiatives

The nonprofit conducts original research to identify areas of agreement among gun owners and non-gun owners. It supports policies like Extreme Risk Protection Orders (red flag laws) and provides training for law enforcement on implementing gun policies safely.

Criticisms and Debates

97 Percent Org Inc has been criticized for its methodology in polling gun owners and the alleged contradictions in its messaging. Critics argue that the group misrepresents gun owners' views and pushes anti-gun policies under the guise of promoting responsible gun ownership and public safety.

[1] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/301198150 [2] https://saf.org/despite-its-slick-marketing-la-based-nonprofit-97percent-is-100-percent-anti-gun/ [3] https://www.97percent.us/about [4] https://www.97percent.us [5] https://www.nraila.org/articles/20240408/the-97percent-lie