Ruan was founded on July 4, 1932, by a young entrepreneur named John Ruan in an effort to support his family during the Great Depression. From hard work and business acumen, Mr. Ruan grew a one-truck operation into an entire fleet that conducted business throughout the country. Not only was Mr. Ruan a respected leader in the transportation industry, but he was a renowned philanthropist who believed heavily in giving back to his community. Some of his most significant contributions include funding multiple sclerosis (MS) research and endowing the World Food Prize. His spirit of philanthropy is evident in Ruan's culture to this day, and we recognize his legacy with Founder's Days each July.
Ruan locations nationwide celebrate Founder's Days by volunteering in their communities and organizing food and clothing drives. Team members at our corporate office participate in volunteer events each Friday in July throughout Des Moines. This year's organizations include Link Associates, Courage League Sports, the Science Center of Iowa and YMCA Supportive Housing Campus. Ruan also partners with Banker's Trust and MidAmerican Energy during this time to package thousands of meals for Meals from the Heartland.
July is also when our Driver of the Year and Terminal of the Year celebrations are held. These events serve to recognize team members and operations that best embody the values John Ruan instilled in our company—dedication, integrity, safety and superior service.
