The Ruritan National Convention was held in January in Greenville, S.C., and the newest club in Patrick County was recognized as being in the top 5 percent of all small clubs in growth. The Woolwine Community Ruritan Club added 18 members in 2024, all of which are dedicated to their community.
“This club amazes me,” said Zone 1 Governor Pamela Smith. “Their willingness to step outside of the box with their projects and their success in helping the community in many ways is phenomenal.” The club has lots of activities planned throughout the year.
The second youngest club in the county, the Stuart Ruritans, had a busy fourth quarter, spilling into 2025. They distributed Christmas goodie bags to the residents at the Landmark Center, presented Rudy Bears to the Stuart Fire Department, Patrick County Emergency Services and Patrick County Sheriff’s Office. Rudy Bear is the official Ruritan mascot and are teddy bears that help first responders in situations that warrant comfort to children in tragedies. Smith, who also serves as Stuart’s secretary/treasurer, said this club is committed to mental health awareness and is planning again to partner with Patrick County Alzheimer’s Group for a Color Walk/Bike Run later this year.
“Partnering with other civic/community organizations is helpful for all of those involved,” said Smith.
Patrick Springs recently held a BBQ fundraiser to help “Envision Critz” with their endeavors. Vice-President Kenneth Reynolds said the recent addition of new members is helping the club develop new ideas and with manpower needed for their projects. This club is planning a Poor Man’s Supper in March.
The Red Bank club is gearing up for its annual Peanut Butter Easter Egg sales, according to Vice-President Robert Cowdrey. Cowdrey reflected on the loss of one of their integral members. “Tom Bishop was a huge part of our delivery sector of these eggs. We will have to step up to make it happen this year.” The Red Bank Club is excited to continue their traditional fundraiser this year.
Meadows of Dan is hosting Braden Health representatives to give an update on the hospital’s progress during their March 6th meeting. President Aaron Shelor proudly reported that his club delivered 18 loads of firewood to the needy and is actively helping to support the food pantry in their community.
The Ararat Ruritan club hosts the Disaster Relief Food Ministry on the last Saturday of each month. “This program has grown by leaps and bounds, and has now been moved to Smith Brothers Trucking,” Smith said. “There is a tremendous need for this service, and we’re glad to help provide for our community,” said club President Claude Smith. The club hosts a casual (friendly) Rook game every Monday night. This provides a time for folks to come out and fellowship.
The Ruritan slogan is “Fellowship, Goodwill, and Community Service,” and as you can see from all of the above, all of the clubs in Patrick County are ‘all in’.
For more information on Ruritans in your area, or if you’re interested in starting a club in your area, please contact Zone Governor, Pamela Smith at pamela.smith.ruritan@gmail.com or at (276) 229-6931.
