Ruth Schultz understood the power of sports from an early age.
A gifted athlete, Ruth dreamed of becoming a gym teacher and played first base on a women's professional baseball team before she married. She believed in healthy competition, encouraged her own children to pursue sports and other interests, and never lost sight of something important: sports should be fun.
The leadership and determination Ruth developed through athletics became part of a lifelong commitment to serving others. She volunteered with organizations including HIAS, PTA, and Boy Scouts and remained active in charitable work well into her 90s.
Throughout her life, Ruth believed we should always strive to make the world a better place.
Ruth was the devoted mother of three sons—Allan, Jack, and Howard.
Her son Howard Schultz, former President and CEO of the North Suburban YMCA, carried many of the lessons his mother taught him into his own leadership: keep sports fun, give your best effort, help those in need, and give your time in service to others.
The Ruth Schultz Bright Days Fund was created in honor of Howard's 10 years of service as President/CEO of the NSYMCA and carries forward the values Ruth instilled in her family.
The North Suburban YMCA believes youth programs should help children discover what they enjoy, develop at their own pace, and grow in a supportive environment.
Through athletics, special needs programming, youth development, arts, and leadership opportunities, young people can:
- Build confidence and new skills
- Develop healthy habits
- Strengthen social connections
- Discover independence
- Develop leadership skills
- Find activities and interests they love
The Ruth Schultz Bright Days Fund helps make these positive experiences possible.
Gifts to the Ruth Schultz Bright Days Fund help enhance NSYMCA Youth Athletic and Leadership Development programs and provide young people with opportunities to grow, overcome obstacles, and discover their own paths.
It's a fitting continuation of a life shaped by athletics, leadership, service, and the belief that we can all help make our communities better.