Each July, we celebrate Founder’s Days to honor our founder John Ruan and all Ruan team members for their dedication to their work, families, and communities. On July 4, 1932 – 89 years ago – Mr. Ruan started the company with a strong work ethic and a dedication to his community. To honor and celebrate this philanthropic spirit in which Ruan was established, Ruan team members are encouraged to participate in volunteering opportunities and community service events during the month of July.
This year, Ruan team members participated in various volunteer activities to support numerous causes in the central Iowa area. To provide support to those struggling with food insecurity, team members volunteered with the Food Bank of Iowa to sort donations, pack BackPack Sacks for children, and bag bulk donations.
Ruan team members also participated in the annual Rock the Block event with Habitat for Humanity. Rock the Block® brings homeowners, volunteers, and Habitat for Humanity together to support low-income residents with needed repair, maintenance, weatherization, safety, accessibility, and beautification of homes.
At the Bidwell Riverside Center, team members completed projects such as yard work, facility maintenance, and stocking grocery shelves for families in need. Bidwell has a food and clothing pantry for those struggling financially in the Des Moines area, as well as a Child Development Center that offers affordable education and childcare for children ages two through five.
Hawthorn Hill’s New Directions Shelter provides free, temporary, emergency shelter and services for homeless families with children and their Home Connection provides permanent supportive housing for homeless families with children in Des Moines. Their goal is to assist the families attain financial independence. Ruan team members volunteered their time at Hawthorn Hill doing yard work, sorting donations, and cleaning the living spaces in the shelter.
Thank you to all team members who volunteers with these deserving organizations!