Kevin Smith, treasurer of the Ararat Ruritan Club, was recognized for his work with the Ruritan National Foundation at the Ruritan National Convention held earlier this year in Winston-Salem, N.C.
Smith was awarded the Ruritan National Foundation Garland Gray Award for having the district with the “most dollars donated by club.” He was also presented a certificate (for second place) for the “Greatest Contribution Per Member in 2023.” Serving as the Foundation Chairman on the Dan River District Cabinet afforded him the opportunity to visit the clubs within the district to encourage them to donate to the Foundation, which manages the scholarship program of Ruritan. Smith strongly believes in scholarships to help further a student’s education, so much so that he has established a permanent fund (Kevin and Pamela Smith Education Fund) to grow into a guaranteed scholarship for years to come.
Smith is involved in the Ruritan clubs within Patrick County, as he and his wife, Pamela Roberson Smith (formerly of Stuart) are responsible for establishing the newly formed Stuart and Woolwine Community Ruritan Clubs. At the Dan River District Convention in November, they were recognized as “Distinguished Ruritan Members” and awarded a pin to wear to signify this prestigious award. During ceremonies at the National Convention, they were recognized by Ruritan National President Michael Morrison, along with immediate Past President Glen Broadwater and wife Linda, National Director Juliann Poff, and Executive Director Sara Kelly for their involvement in growing Ruritan over the last year with the formation of a total of four new clubs.
Kevin Smith became a Ruritan in 1999 and has served on the club, zone and district levels within the organization. Pamela joined the Ruritan organization in 2019 and also has served on the club, zone and district levels. She is the past-president of the Ararat club and is serving as Stuart’s secretary/treasurer.
Kevin said, “I don’t do this for recognition, but it is nice to know that the folks on the national level appreciate what we’re doing here in our area.” When asked why she joined Ruritan, Pamela’s reply was, “I have always had a servant’s heart. I love helping people and I have a lot more time than I do money, or at least I hope I do!”
