Citizen Spotlight: Author A. Ruth Proctor

By Ms Jheri Worldwide 

Staff Writer

A. Ruth Proctor is a force in the community. Business owner, community organizer, mother and so much more, I was thrilled to ask her a few questions about her experiences. I first inquired about her influences from her writing to her philanthropy and other areas, “My personal experiences in foster care and surviving domestic violence have taught me to be intentional and purpose-driven in both writing and giving back.” 

Published in November 2020, “I Survived; You Can Too!” is Proctor’s autobiography and a testament to perseverance. She tells her story and offers tools for people to push through and overcome challenges. Her reminder emphasizes her faith-based approach, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13. 

We spoke next on A. Ruth’s entrepreneurial journey, “My journey has significantly shaped both my personal and professional growth in several ways. Professionally, running successful businesses in the mental health field has deepened my understanding of the complexities of mental health issues. It has equipped me with practical leadership, problem-solving, and innovation skills, allowing me to create effective programs that truly support individuals in need. This experience has also expanded my network, connecting me with other passionate professionals and organizations dedicated to improving mental health care. On a personal level, balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood and caregiving for my mother, who has schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, has taught me resilience and empathy. I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the struggles that individuals and families face in the mental health space. This has informed my business practices, and also inspired me to advocate for better resources and support systems for caregivers and those affected by mental health challenges. Ultimately, my journey has reinforced the importance of compassion, understanding, and community support, in my personal life and professional endeavors. It’s a continuous learning process, but I’m grateful these experiences have shaped me into a more empathetic leader and advocate.

My next inquiry was for advice. We connected on what more we could do as individuals if we aim to start our businesses while staying engaged in the community. Here are a few excellent tips: “I would offer the following advice:

Prioritize Your Passion: Start with what you love. When your business is aligned with your interests and values, it will not only be more fulfilling but also easier to stay motivated and engaged.

Create a Support Network: Surround yourself with a community of like-minded individuals. Connect with other entrepreneurs and mothers who can provide encouragement, share resources, and offer advice. Don’t hesitate to seek mentorship or join local organizations that support women in business.

Set Clear Goals and Boundaries: Define your business and community engagement goals early on. Set boundaries to ensure that you have time for both. This will help you maintain focus and avoid burnout.

Embrace Flexibility: Life can be unpredictable, especially as a mom. Be open to adjusting your plans and expectations. Flexibility will allow you to navigate challenges without feeling overwhelmed.

Integrate Community Service into Your Business: Look for ways to align your business with community needs. Consider incorporating social responsibility into your business model, whether through partnerships, donations, or volunteer efforts. This will enhance your business’s impact and keep you engaged.

Practice Self-Care: Take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Prioritize time for self-care to recharge your energy and maintain your well-being. A healthy and balanced mindset will help you manage both business and family life more effectively.

Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This will help you stay motivated and remind you of the progress you’re making in both your business and community efforts.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Whether it’s childcare, business advice, or emotional support, asking for help is crucial. Building a strong support system will allow you to manage your responsibilities more effectively.

A Ruth elaborated, “Starting a business while staying engaged in your community can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. With determination, support, and a clear vision, you can make a meaningful impact in both areas of your life.

Lastly, A. Ruth has a fundraiser coming up. Here is some insight if you would like to support, “What inspired me to start my back-to-school fundraiser was my own experience in foster care. I know firsthand how challenging it can be for kids in the system, especially when it comes to accessing essential supplies for school. I wanted to ensure that other children had the resources they needed to succeed academically and feel confident as they begin a new school year. Balancing this initiative with running my business is definitely a challenge, but I’ve found that both endeavors complement each other. My business provides valuable skills in organization, marketing, and fundraising, which I can apply to my nonprofit work. I prioritize my time and set clear goals for both areas, ensuring my passion for helping others remains a central focus. By creating a supportive network of volunteers and leveraging community partnerships, I can make a bigger impact while managing my responsibilities effectively. It’s all about finding that harmony and staying committed to the mission!” You can find A. Ruth Proctor online at www.aruthproctor.com.