“We are all neighbors, so let’s work together to make our neighborhood a safe and vibrant community.” — Delores Gray
Delores Gray has been a proud resident of the Central community since the age of 12. A lifelong neighborhood activist and organizer, she was part of the inaugural cohort of 12 Cleveland Central Promise Neighborhood Ambassadors and was later honored by the Promise Neighborhood as a Champion of Central for her continued service and leadership.
She is a graduate of East Technical High School and Cuyahoga Community College, where she studied Small Business Development. Over the years, she has served on numerous boards, committees, and councils, including the East Tech Alumni Association, Burten, Bell, Carr Development, The Friendly Inn, Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority, Central Kinsman Wellness Collective and the Legal Aid Society.
As a Promise Ambassador, Delores was appointed to Cleveland City Council, where she served as Ward 5 Councilperson in 2021. Her commitment to civic engagement and public service has shaped key initiatives in early learning, re-entry, adult education, youth development and food security throughout the Central neighborhood.
In recognition of her dedication, Delores received the Community Impact Award from the General Assembly of the Ohio Senate in 2024 for Exemplary Distinction, and in 2025, she received the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award. Her advocacy, activism and leadership continue to inspire all who have had the opportunity to work with her. Another milestone for Delores is the conferral of her degree at Cleveland State University on May 16. She is a proud mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, with one son, three granddaughters and a great-grandson.