Meet RuthAnn Smithrud | Faith that Works Tucson Executive Director; St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Local Outreach Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with RuthAnn Smithrud and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi RuthAnn, can you talk to us about how your organization impacts the community?
I believe that our non-profit, Faith that Works Tucson, has a positive impact on the community. We have a Mobile Shower Unit that we take into the community so that those who are homeless or in need can have access to a hot shower. We connect the unit to fresh water and electricity typically at a site that serves food. We see around 25 clients at a time and are currently looking for more volunteers because of the need. We also give all of the hygiene products that you need to clean up as well as a gently used t-shirt, new underwear, and socks. It is such a gift to hear those who have had a shower express their gratitude. One man told us “Thank you for giving us back our dignity.” I don’t think I will ever forget that comment as it has had an impact on all of us who serve this community.

Another service that we do is to focus on our schools. As a former first grade teacher of 27 years, I know that teachers and staff have such a challenge in our current times. We want to make sure that they know they are appreciated…from administrative, custodial and cafeteria staff, to teachers and staff working in the classrooms. We put together various treats for the holidays such as pumpkin bread, cookie packs, valentines, and Easter baskets. We also bless the schools with what they need such as backpacks and supplies. We are currently funding $1000 in supplies for the four Flowing Wells School District childcare programs.

Finally, we support what is called “Serve Our City” in our community. This is a once a year event which takes place in November. We bring churches and organizations together to serve the community. This involves a team from different churches as well. We have over 1000 volunteer participants who are either painting, gardening, cleaning, putting together school items such as desks, serving food, making crafts and treat bags, baking, landscaping, etc. Last year, El Tour de Tucson reached out to one of our partners so that we could put together 500 bikes for children in need. We worked through the schools who recommended the students. We also collected over 300 food bags that we delivered to schools for their families. This event never ceases to amaze as it offers so much hope to the different areas of our community.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I graduated from the University of Arizona and began my 27-year teaching career. I have always loved children, and it was such a blessing to teach for all of those years. Children offer you so much understanding and unconditional love. During that time, I mentored other teachers as well as participated in the highest level of Career Ladder, which was a performance-based program. I have always believed that children, and people in general, succeed with respect, encouragement, and love. I know that it has taken those qualities from other individuals who have poured into my life in order to get me where I am today. I think overcoming the challenges in my life comes from trusting and believing that the Lord is there with you. It wasn’t until I surrendered completely to Jesus that my life made a turn for the better.
One of the greatest lessons I learned is that Jesus can give you what you are searching for… fulfillment and an abundant life. Everything else is empty in comparison.
My outreach position and running the nonprofit have given me great joy because I get to bless others in need. I don’t believe there is greater joy in life than to love our neighbors, family, and friends with all of our hearts.
Another lesson that I have learned is that God puts people in your path that he wants to support, encourage, and mentor you. I can look back on my life and think of all of the people that have been there for me.
I want people to know that God can restore what has been lost.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would check out: Sabino Canyon, Tohono Chul Park, Sahuaro National Monument East, Desert Museum, Mount Lemmon, University of Arizona, Pima Air Museum, San Xavier del Bac Mission, Tumamoc Hill, A Mountain

I would eat at Wildflower, El Charro, Truland, Sauce Pizza, Gentle Ben’s Brewing down by the University of Arizona, Bobo’s (giant pancakes)

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My Shoutout goes to my Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the one who has directed my steps from teaching, to taking care of my parents for 1 1/2 while they were in two different care centers, to my 8-year job as the Local Outreach Director at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, and to launching our nonprofit, Faith that Works Tucson. The Lord has taken my gifts that He has given me and made a way for me in our community. I never thought that I could do what I am doing, but it takes trust in Him when things seem impossible. I have certainly learned that nothing is impossible with God! Another Shoutout is the late Reverend Jim Toole, who took a chance on this retired first grade teacher to become St. Andrew’s first Outreach Director. Pastor. Jim passed away from a battle with cancer but didn’t leave this world until he gave us the continued wisdom to lead. He trusted me to be led by the Holy Spirit, and when I approached him about starting the nonprofit, he said excitedly, “That’s a great idea!” At the time, that wasn’t exactly what I wanted to hear, but he had the faith for us both to see it through. I knew then that it was an idea from God.
My final Shoutout is to my two sons, Steve and Brian, who have always supported my teaching and outreach, and to my friends and family. I am so blessed by you all!

Website: www.sapctucson.org www.faiththatworkstucson.org

Facebook: RuthAnnSmithrud