From Latchkey Kid to Community Builder: Ryan Downey's Journey

Ryan Downey, Executive Director of East Atlanta Kids Club, whose journey from latchkey kid to community leader is rooted in resilience, purpose, and a belief in opportunity for all. Growing up in the south suburbs of Atlanta, Ryan often relied on the kindness of neighbors, friends, and coaches—an early lesson in the power of community support. Today, he channels that same spirit into building programs that give young people access to mentorship, sports, and educational opportunities they might otherwise miss.

Ryan shares how his path—from teaching poetry in schools and correctional facilities, to a decade of service with Year Up, to now leading one of Atlanta’s most impactful youth development organizations—has always been guided by one core conviction: every young person is an asset, not a deficit.

With nearly two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, workforce development, and youth programming, Ryan is a first-generation college graduate, husband, father, board member, Australian rules football player, and above all, a tireless advocate for equity and community building.

Tune in to hear how Ryan and the East Atlanta Kids Club are breaking cycles of inequity, nurturing talents, and creating pathways to brighter futures.

Website:  https://eastatlantakids.org/get-involved/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ryan.downey.54390

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/rdowney404/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryandowney1/

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