The Ross Foundation was founded by Derris Ross, an Indianapolis native born and raised on the city’s Far Eastside. Growing up as a kid, Derris was able to see how the community lacked youth programs and community involvement. Due to this, the rise in crime, drug usage, and poverty has taken a toll on the community. Now being older and a respected leader of the community, he has decided to start his own foundation in order to give back to and repair his childhood community. He wants to let the youth know that you do not have to settle for being a product of your environment. You can achieve more. Derris has been recognized locally and nationally for his accomplishments in his community.
The 1828 Leadership Project, presented by Citizens Energy Group, is a civic leadership tract for Indy’s young leaders with the goal of fostering intentional relationships with a cross sector of Indianapolis’ thought leaders and decision makers. Ethan is a part of 1828’s Class X– learn more about him below!
How do you spend your days? For example, you can tell us about your career, side hustle or exercise routine whatever you want to share here we’re ready to listen.
I’m the executive director and founder of the Ross Foundation. Growing up, I saw firsthand the resources our city needed to empower youth and the overall community. I love what I do and I love the people of my community. spend most of my free time brainstorming and strategizing on ways to better and develop our company.
Are you a native to Indianapolis, what side of town are you from?
Yes! I grew up on the Far Eastside of Indianapolis, which is where I still live.
You’re off the clock, there are no expectations. What are you doing?
Easy. You can find me finding innovative and new ways to serve my community, playing basketball, or working out.
When thinking about the future of Indianapolis, what are you most looking forward to in the next 5 years and why?
Indianapolis needs to lean into having a cultural identity that includes Black and brown people. From every sector – government, education, sports, arts – Indy must continue to work for an inclusive city.
Are there any local causes that you support? What are they and how might others learn more or get involved?
The Ross Foundation is an organization I strongly support, their mission is to take the community out of survival mode into thriving mode through creating effective youth programs, repairing our communities, and developing leaders. They are on all social media outlets and their website is therossfoundationcommunity.org.
Do you have a favorite local place in town (restaurant, bar, park, etc.) that you love going to? Where is it and why should other people try it out?
Hands down, the best soul food spot in the city is His Place Eatery. It’s a Far Eastside gem that everyone must stop in and grab a bite at.
Indianapolis is a sprawling county, what’s your favorite part about our city?
Opportunities are endless. Indy is a constantly evolving city, and the city hasn’t hit its peak. So for young people and those that want to make it happen – Indy is your place.
If you were a superhero what would be your special trait? Why?
I wish I possessed the ability to wear different hats to better our communities. Making it more safer and economically more stable and sufficient.
You’re hosting your own music festival with three artists – Who’s performing?
Chance The Rapper, LeCrae, Meek Mills
If you had to listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be? Why?
Meek Mills – Dreams & Nightmares
Mornings or evenings, and why?
Evenings, I really just like making my own schedule.
How do you define success?
Doing what you love to do full time and making a difference
What would you name the autobiography of your life? Feel free to give us context here.
Why Not Me?
I literally come from the bottom, from a rough neighborhood and upbringing, from being a leader of a gang, and everyone counted me out, but look at me now..here I am Why Not Me?
