Giving Hope
to the Next Generation
Gates of Hope is a not-for-profit organization that empowers individuals and develops communities. We build meaningful relationships
through purposeful service.
Giving Hope
to the Next Generation
Gates of Hope is a not-for-profit organization that empowers individuals and develops communities. We build meaningful relationships
through purposeful service.
MEET THE BOARD
MIKE HAMMER
Mike is one of the co-founders of Gates of Hope in the USA and is the reason why the foundation was started in the States. In 2001, Mike traveled to Kenya to complete a research project and found Mary in desperate need of help as she had taken on more than 20 kids and was struggling to take care of them all on her own. Mike asked friends and family to give whatever financial resources they could contribute and thus began our provision of basic needs and education to the kids of Gates of Hope in Kenya. From 2001-2008, Mike raised the funds needed to ensure that every one of our kids was clothed, fed, receiving necessary medical attention, and able to attend school!
Mike is a State Manager at Young's Market Company and has a huge heart for helping the less fortunate. With a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Northwest Nazarene University, Mike brings a much-needed balance of business-smarts and social justice to Gate of Hope. Mike's wife Stephanie has been his supporter and teammate through this amazing journey and they have 2 wonderful children Shae and Wyatt!
DEBORAH RYMAN
In 2008, Deborah became involved in Gates of Hope as an intern and is now the Director of Operations. While she is all business she is truly very compassionate and caring devoting her time to improving the lives of our kids in Kenya and constantly seeking out ways to make a difference in the local community. Deborah has a Bachelor’s degree in Children’s Studies with a minor in Counseling, Educational, and Developmental Psychology from Eastern Washington University. She also has a Master’s degree in Social Work and is licensed to practice Social Work.
JOEL RYMAN
Joel has been involved with Gates of Hope since 2009 through his representation of the organization on the basketball court both collegiately and professionally. He is now the Director of Development for Gates of Hope as his greatest strengths include communicating the heart of our foundation, building relationships, and empowering others to serve.
Joel has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a minor in Political Science.
JON MUNN
Outside of his amazing red hair and incredible ability to grow fantastic facial hair, Jon posses a keen mind and a huge heart for serving people. He joined the board in 2011 and is currently a Licensed Social Worker for the Idaho Youth Ranch. He holds a collection of degrees from an array of schools. He received a Bachelors in Philosophy from Point Loma Nazarene University, a Master of Philosophy from Gonzaga, and a Master of Social Work from Northwest Nazarene University.
A man of many talents Jon enjoys fishing with his boys Maddox and Orion and loves to dress up as Star War characters with his wife Stacia.
CHAD NICHOLSON
Chad joined the board in 2011 and possesses genius-level decision-making skills and a huge heart for serving others. He is also a graduate of Northwest Nazarene University where he earned his degree in Political Science and Social Science in 2000. Chad then went on to obtain his Juris Doctorate from Gonzaga Law School in 2003. Chad brings great knowledge and perspective to the table and has been able to connect Gates of Hope with local projects through his mad networking skills! Even better than Chad, is his awesome son Levi.