HYSSOP
/ˈhisəp/
Purge me with Hyssop and I will be "clean".
Hyssop is held high as a spiritual herb since biblical times for its potential to purify the mind, cleanse the soul, improve divinity and support nurishments from within.
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WHO WE ARE
Alex T. Ray – Chairman of the Board
Mary Ann Van Osdell
Trent Bartley II
Parker G. Ward
The vision of Hyssop Care Foundation is to create a hybrid 12-unit affordable apartment complex for families in need of hope—a second chance through accessible housing. Our goal is to raise $3 million to complete the first phase of Grace Point Apartments, ensuring the complex is fully built, paid off, and offered at an affordable rate to families seeking a fresh start.
We are proud to collaborate with leading organizations, including Caddo Parish Parks and Recreation, Expand, BMW Shreveport, On A Mission LLC, Aneca Bank, and Louisiana Downs Racetrack.
Foundations & Nonprofit Partners: Our mission is strengthened through partnerships with Christian Services, Hope Connection, The Hub: Urban Ministries, Salvation Army, and Hope House.
OUR PEOPLE
OUR VISION
OUR PARTNERS
PARKER G. WARD
A devoted Christian who began teaching the gospel at a young age, Parker’s life is deeply rooted in faith, family, and service. A graduate of the Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he is both a chef and small business owner, crafting his own line of Cajun seasonings inspired by passion and tradition.
Guided by his America First convictions and a servant’s heart, Parker is dedicated to building stronger communities and a stronger nation through leadership, integrity, and faith-driven purpose.
MEET OUR BOARD
MARY ANN VAN OSDELL
Mary Ann Van Osdell retired in 2024 from being Sen. Barrow Peacock’s legislative assistant for 12 years. She received the Public Servant of the Year award. She was elected by the voters to serve on the Republican State Central Committee.
She has a B.A. in Journalism from LSU-Baton Rouge and was a reporter/editor for the Shreveport Times for 14 years with national awards and has been the society columnist for 318 Forum News since 1994.
She has authored four books, served on several boards and was queen of the Krewe of Aesclepius. Mary Ann is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and Elks Club.
trent bartley II
Boris “Trent” Bartley II is a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, where he was born and raised. He earned his undergraduate degree from Wiley University and went on to complete two graduate-level degrees from the University of the Rockies and Walden University.
Trent currently serves as the Director of Social Services at The Salvation Army in Northwest Louisiana. Since earning his master’s degree, he has dedicated his career to the field of mental health, working tirelessly to improve the well-being of others.
A proud father of three, Trent is also a devoted musician of faith, serving both his church and his community through music ministry. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and the Masonic Order in Marshall, Texas.
Driven by compassion and purpose, Trent believes that helping others is not just a calling but a responsibility — that giving is always greater than receiving, and every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive in their own path of life.
ALEX T RAY
Alex T. Ray is a proud son of Shreveport, Louisiana—born and raised in the heart of the city he continues to serve. A dedicated philanthropist, Alex has over a decade of experience in the field of social services, driven by a deep commitment to uplifting his community.
He is the owner of On A Mission LLC and Hyssop Care Sober Living Home, both of which reflect his passion for empowering individuals on their journey toward recovery and purpose. He is also the founder of the Shreveport Father’s Day 5K Run and Walk, an event designed to promote health, unity, and positive fatherhood in the community.
Alex holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Human Services, as well as a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. His life’s mission is to give hope, change lives, and bring glory to God through service, leadership, and love.
PROGRAMS
ON A MISSION, LLC
HYSSOP CARE SOBER LIVING
Welcome to Hyssop Care Sober Living – a safe and supportive men’s recovery home in Shreveport, designed to help men rebuild their lives in a structured, sober environment. Our home provides shared rooms, all utilities, meals, and amenities for just $125 per week, with a $50 deposit. With a zero-tolerance policy for drugs, alcohol, and violence, and a live-in house manager to provide guidance and support, Hyssop Care offers the accountability and community you need to stay on track and focus on recovery.
On A Mission LLC, founded by Alex Ray in Shreveport, is dedicated to strengthening our community through programs and events that promote healing, growth, and connection. From family-friendly activities like 5K runs to supporting educational initiatives and sober living programs, we focus on nurturing mental, spiritual, physical, and financial well-being. At On A Mission, we believe in creating opportunities for positive change and bringing people together to make a lasting impact.
FATHER'S DAY 5K RUN & WALK
The Shreveport Father’s Day 5K Run & Walk, organized by On A Mission LLC, is an annual celebration honoring fathers and families while supporting our local community. Held at Southern Hills Park, the event features a 5K run/walk, a kids’ 5K, and options for virtual participation, making it fun and accessible for all ages. Participants enjoy a post-race celebration with food, drinks, horseback riding, and family-friendly activities. Proceeds help provide support for families experiencing homelessness and scholarships for single fathers pursuing higher education, making this more than just a race—it’s an opportunity to make a positive impact while celebrating family.
