Ruth's Story

By Chelsey Larson, United Way intern

All mothers are a hero in someone’s eyes and Ruth Kaczor is no exception.  She is a proud single mother of ten children.  Working as a registered nurse, raising her family, and selflessly dedicating her time and volunteering for others to better our community, it’s difficult to believe one woman can do this all.

Originally inspired by her husband Ron, Ruth says he was the gateway behind her desires and actions of being drawn in to help others.  The family had the opportunity to be involved with many youth activities when Ron worked as a Tech High School football coach.  After her husband’s passing, Ruth explained she felt compelled to honor her husband’s memory and his love of kids, so she decided to continue on with their work in the community. 

Ruth’s efforts are heavily centered on youth activities in the St. Cloud Area.  Her time is spent helping with the youth sports programs, Big Brothers Big Sisters, hosting foreign exchange students, and helping with Bible School to name a few.  “By working with the youth, my husband would always say we are helping build championship people, “Ruth said.   “After all they are our future,” she added. 

The importance of volunteerism is also instilled in each of her children.  “It’s a family effort,” Ruth said.  Everyone in their family helps out, no matter their age.  “There is a certain value in building your community, future, and building confidence in others,” she explained. 

Ruth said her family’s fortune of being able to provide and being blessed comes with a task.  In the words of her husband, Ruth said, “Because we have been given a lot it is our responsibility to give back, to give ourselves up, and to help build our community.”

Yearning to make the area a better place to live and giving others the opportunity to better themselves, Ruth is far more than a working mother of ten.  Most people today get caught up with their busy lives.  They want to help others and do the volunteer work, but the excuse of “not enough time” often gets in the way.  Ruth has found a simple solution to making it possible to continue her lifestyle in her role of mother, employee, and volunteer, “just do it, actions speak louder than words.”