Volunteer of the Month: Celebrating Ruth’s Lasting Impact

“Always think in Royal Purple”

There is one person that has made the name of a small village in North-West Germany a landmark in YFU Germany: Ruth Schweigmann. In her region, Ruth is a constant and trusted presence. But her dedication reaches far beyond her hometown, shaping experiences and building connections across the entire organization.

Each year, Ruth visits numerous schools to inspire students to embark on an exchange or to recruit host families. She is the first person to offer an "open ear" to families in her area, and she is constantly in conversation with people who have never heard of YFU, sharing our mission with a natural passion that is hard to resist.

National contribution

Beyond her regional work, Ruth has played an important role on a national level. She has contributed to various committees within YFU Germany and has been involved in managing programs such as “USA/Germany for You.” Her experience and insight have helped shape initiatives that reach far beyond her immediate surroundings.

International reach

Ruth’s impact also extends internationally. She is currently instrumental in building and strengthening YFU's relationship with Namibia. Through her work, she helps create new opportunities for intercultural exchange and ensures that YFU continues to grow as a global network.

Spirit

What truly sets Ruth apart is not just what she does, but the spirit she brings to everything she undertakes. Her personal motto, “Always think in Royal Purple,” reflects her deep connection to YFU and her commitment to its values. She shares the mission of YFU with a natural enthusiasm that inspires those around her and draws new people into the community.

A lasting legacy

From sending her own children abroad over hosting 16 exchange students in her family to volunteering across countless areas, Ruth’s contributions over the years are extraordinary. More than that, she has become a central figure in YFU Germany, a person people turn to, rely on, and remember.

Ruth embodies the true spirit of YFU. Her dedication, passion, and lasting impact make her more than deserving of recognition as our Volunteer of the Month. Thank you, Ruth, for being such a model YFU volunteer and an inspiration for so many!