About Rev. Mary Downey

Rev. Mary Downey is the CEO and Founder of Hope Partnership, a housing justice nonprofit based in Osceola County. Recognized as the 2019 Central Floridian of the Year by the Orlando Sentinel, she has dedicated her career to empowering communities, addressing homelessness, and driving systemic change. A passionate advocate for smart city development and the arts, Rev. Downey combines bold vision, innovative thinking, and compassionate leadership in her candidacy for Osceola County Commission, District 4. Rev. Downey has called Osceola County home since 2006 and has lived in District 4 since 2015. She is married to Martin and the proud mother of three children who attend local public schools. Originally from Arkadelphia, Arkansas, she earned her B.A. and M.A. degrees from Henderson State University and an M.A. from Asbury Theological Seminary. In her free time, Rev. Downey enjoys supporting local community theater—especially when her children perform—reading, hiking, visiting theme parks, and cooking for her family and friends.