Team - Urban Hope Indy

Meet the team

Jonathan Ray

Executive Director

"Transforming communities starts with empowering relationships."

Jonathan Ray

Executive Director

Jonathan D. Ray, known as Jonny, has been at the helm of Urban Hope Indy since 2015, bringing over 35 years of nonprofit leadership experience in Indianapolis. With expertise in managing multimillion-dollar budgets and driving strategic solutions, Jonny’s servant leadership approach fosters teamwork, innovation, and continuous growth. Born into humble beginnings, Jonny’s early life taught him the value of relationships and a deep desire to serve others. He credits his success to faith and the extraordinary support of ordinary people who believed in him. Jonny holds degrees in Management, Finance, and an MBA, and alongside his wife Linda, an RN, he remains passionate about creating lasting change. They are proud parents of two daughters, Danielle and Hannah, who also dedicate their lives to serving others.

Phone:(317) 902-2313
Email:jonny@urbanhopeindy.org

Linda Ray

Executive Assistant

"Healing begins with a listening heart and a helping hand."

Linda Ray

Executive Assistant

Linda Ray brings over 40 years of healthcare expertise to Urban Hope Indy, where her nurturing spirit and dedication to serving others shine. As a Registered Nurse, Linda’s career has spanned Surgical and Cardiac ICU care, case management, cardiac rehabilitation, and consulting roles in the medical equipment industry, where she achieved significant success in sales and marketing. For the past decade, Linda has been an integral part of Urban Hope Indy, serving as a case manager, mentor, and passionate advocate for youth mentoring. Drawing from her extensive healthcare experience, Linda inspires disadvantaged youth to prioritize their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, believing that intentional care and positive encouragement can lead to transformative recovery and lasting hope.

Phone:(317) 919-4049
Email:linda@urbanhopeindy.org

Gabe Hilt

Chief of Staff

"Purpose fuels progress, and teamwork drives transformation."

Gabe Hilt

Chief of Staff

Gabe Hilt plays a pivotal role at Urban Hope Indy as a Strategic Advisor, driving program development, mentorship recruitment, event production, and fundraising initiatives. He ensures streamlined communication, tracks progress, and aligns weekly and monthly objectives for success. In addition to his work at Urban Hope, Gabe serves as Executive Producer for Hoop Bus Inc., where he has expanded its reach from a single bus to five across the U.S. and three internationally in Paris, Mexico City, and the Philippines. With over 15 years of experience in youth, collegiate, and professional basketball, including at Indiana University, Gabe brings a unique blend of leadership and community-focused expertise to every endeavor.y

Phone:(614) 493-6581
Email:gabe@urbanhopeindy.org

Hannah Ray, LMHC

Program & Youth Development

"Empathy is the bridge that connects people to their potential."

Hannah Ray, LMHC

Program & Youth Development

With over a decade of experience in mental health and social services, Hannah Ray is dedicated to empowering youth and building strong mentor relationships. Her expertise spans trauma-informed care, strengths-based approaches, and designing impactful programs for diverse communities, from rural areas to urban centers. Hannah’s work has taken her across the globe, leading mental health and relief projects in Haiti, Iraq, and India. At Urban Hope Indy, she spearheads mentor recruitment and program development, leveraging her storytelling skills to inspire action and grow a thriving online platform of over 50,000 followers. Passionate about making a difference, Hannah collaborates with community leaders, nonprofits, and churches to ensure success for youth and mentors alike.

Phone:(317) 260-8592
Email:hannah@urbanhopeindy.org

Mel Johnson

Event Facilitation

"Every moment is an opportunity to create connection and inspire change."

Mel Johnson

Event Facilitation

Melanie Johnson brings over five years of experience in event planning, audio production, and community engagement to Urban Hope Indy. As a skilled DJ, audio producer, and spoken word artist, Mel specializes in creating immersive and impactful events that resonate with audiences and foster community connection. In her role, Mel curates dynamic events that align with Urban Hope Indy’s mission, collaborates with local partners, and secures funding through grants and sponsorships. Her passion for creative expression and dedication to inclusivity shine in every project, making each event a memorable and meaningful experience for all involved.

Phone:(463) 271-8950
Email:mel@urbanhopeindy.,org

Tony Wakley

Business Development & Admin

"Innovation and strategy pave the way for sustainable impact."

Tony Wakley

Business Development & Admin

Tony Wakley is a seasoned business professional with over 30 years of expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and operational excellence. As Business Development and Systems Director at Urban Hope Indy, Tony drives innovation by securing vital resources through grants, donations, and partnerships while optimizing technology solutions to enhance organizational efficiency. His leadership ensures streamlined processes and sustainable growth, directly supporting Urban Hope’s mission to empower underserved youth and families. With a passion for problem-solving and continuous improvement, Tony is committed to building a strong foundation for impactful and lasting change in the community.

Phone:+1 (317) 373-7811
Email:twakley@urbanhopeindy.org

Meet the board

David Held

Valenti-Held Development

David Barnett

Retired Pastor

Mary Barnett

Terry Holmes

Bread of Life Ministries

Mary Holmes

Bread of Life Ministires

Ron Nunez

Woodruff Place