Helping The Next Generation  Thrive —
Through Rhythm and Community.

Ray of Hope Community Development Center is a Baltimore nonprofit helping youth and young adults build confidence, leadership, and cultural pride—at school, in their communities, and in life. At the heart of our mission is Xaala Mainama, a vibrant African drumming, dancing, singing, and stilt-dancing ensemble that celebrates culture while inspiring unity and growth..

About Us
What We Offer
African drumming Baltimore Md Xaala Mainama
African Drumming, Dancing, Singing & Stilt Dancing

Xaala Mainama African Arts Ensemble

African Drumming, Dancing, Singing & Stilt Dancing

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explore Our Programs, Classes and Community Experiences

drum circles Baltimore Md Facilitation Ray of Hppe (1)
Drum Circle Facilitation
Experience the power of rhythm with guided drum circles that unite groups, improve communication, and support healing. Led by facilitator James Ray, these sessions engage all ages across schools, families, and organizations.
speaking engagements Ray of Hope African Heritage
speaking Engagements
James Ray delivers powerful talks with 30+ years
of experience mentoring at-risk youth.
Talk topics include creative conflict resolutions, cultural heritage, community healing and more.
African drumming after school program Baltimore MD
After School
programs
Our after-school programs are designed to enrich and engage youth through drumming, cultural arts, and mentorship — promoting confidence and cultural awareness in a safe and inspiring environment.
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Drum Circles Healing Baltimore MD
Classes &
Workshops 
Hands-on workshops in drumming & dance, drum making and cultural arts that spark creativity, build skills, and celebrate culture. Partner with us to bring these programs to your community for a day or summer session.
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sewing lessons Ray of Hope Baltimore MD
community
Classes
Serving youth to adults in  the Baltimore, MD community with hands-on classes in sewing, cooking, literacy, and more—they are all designed to build life skills, empower individuals, and strengthen families.
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Keep the rhythm of hope alive—
support Baltimore’s youth 

Donate now
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