We’re thrilled to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Ruth Wilson, Getting Ahead facilitator. 

Ruth is a GA grad herself and has been an amazing addition to the team! A New York native, Ruth is a Mom of two and it was her 14-year-old daughter, Mia, who encouraged her to apply for GA in 2023 while they were getting food from one of our evening pantries.  

“I was in middle class then things happened, and I was in poverty. I know the struggle of poverty –  living paycheck to paycheck, trying to find enough food for your family and keep a roof over your head,” she said. “Common Heart did a lot for me. I was able to get back on my feet after participating in Getting Ahead and completed the Emergency Savings Incentive Program earning a $500 bank deposit. I truly enjoy helping people better themselves and helping our community.”

Ruth said she enjoys watching GA participants, called investigators, discover more about poverty in their own lives and our community. 

“I’m so proud of the investigators and their journeys of success. Just seeing people from when they started to the end of Getting Ahead and their growth means a lot,” she said. “They’re engaged and they want to make a change.”

Ruth is the youngest of five kids – and the only girl! Her mother is a Monroe native, which is where they live now. Ruth enjoys reading and loves to write poems & stories. We heard that a high school teacher even recommended she transform one of her stories into a children’s book (we’re ready to see that, Ruth!). She also loves to play board games, watch anime & movies and listen to many genres of music.

You can reach Ruth at 704-875-7887 or email GA@CommonHeart.org