Dr. Ralph Carter
Founder & Executive Director of WE ARE LINDEN
Ralph Carter is the Founder and Executive Director of WE ARE LINDEN, a Black-led, community-based nonprofit committed to empowering youth and strengthening families in Columbus, Ohio. A proud native of South Linden, Ralph has dedicated his life to creating opportunities, resources, and safe spaces that help young people thrive.
With over a decade of experience working with youth across corrections, therapeutic settings, and education—including supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges—Ralph brings both professional expertise and lived experience to his work. He has impacted hundreds of young people by helping them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and take pride in their identity and community.
Ralph founded WE ARE LINDEN in 2015 as a neighborhood block party rooted in unity and community pride. Today, the organization has grown into a year-round movement offering youth programming, mentorship, community events, and violence prevention initiatives designed to uplift and empower Linden residents.
A graduate of Central State University, Ralph served as Chapter President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., where he strengthened his foundation in leadership and service. His commitment to community has earned him recognition including the Future History Maker Award (AARP & Urban One), Central Ohio Crime Stoppers Citizen of the Year, and Central Ohio’s Social Justice Award for Community Service.
In addition to leading WE ARE LINDEN, Ralph serves as Program Manager of the STEP Program at the Columbus Urban League, where he mentors youth at risk of entering the justice system and supports families through intervention and guidance.
Above all, Ralph is a devoted husband and father who believes that real change starts at home and grows through community. His mission is simple: to restore pride, create opportunity, and build a stronger future for Linden together.