Retired chef Ruth Anne Morley of Kirkland has spent nearly 4,000 hours of her time as a dedicated member of RSVP, working with Hopelink to meet community needs through volunteer service. She never imagined that one day, because of her passion and enthusiasm for serving and helping others, she would be receiving an award at the Governor’s mansion. She was recognized earlier this year by Governor Christine Gregoire along with 50 other outstanding volunteers from around the state who displayed exceptional commitment to their volunteer service and their community.
Ruth’s background is in the food industry and her interest in cooking began early, working in her family’s restaurant, starting when she was 14 years old. It was here that she dreamed of becoming a chef, went on to receive a degree in Home Economics and became the owner of her own bakery and catering service. After her demanding but enjoyable career as a chef came to an end, Ruth was left unsatisfied in retirement.
When she first started at Hopelink, it was the result of a posting she saw stating that there was a need for someone to teach clients how to cook nutritious meals from food bank ingredients. Ruth said the job “spoke” to her and she put her apron on once again, this time to volunteer. Over the past eight years, her service has reached those impressive 4,000 hours not only by teaching classes on how to prepare meals from food bank ingredients, but by also transporting food bank donations and preparing meals for food bank volunteers in four locations. Her ongoing commitment to service has helped to motivate and recognize hundreds of other volunteers meeting critical community needs.
Emergency Services Specialist Gloria D. Nakroshis says, “Thanks to the effort and hard work of Ruth Morley our volunteers feel very well cared for. She is always there with a good lunch, warm smile, and a kind word for everyone. When folks have the chance to take a break and enjoy a meal that has been prepared for them, they are rejuvenated and can give our clients the best possible customer service. She is a real treasure.”
Ruth’s kind and caring spirit shows through in her actions and her words. When asked about her volunteering, Ruth says, “I think I was led to Hopelink because I needed them and they needed me. I keep going back because I want to give back.”
“What goes around, comes around” certainly holds true for Ruth.
Congratulations on your Governor’s Award!
This article appeared in the December 2012 issue of Northwest Prime Time, the Puget Sound region’s monthly publication celebrating life after 50.
