At Givens Great Laurels in Waynesville, one resident is simply known as “Granny.”

At 92 years old, Ruth has earned that nickname through years of love, service, and connection—especially through her work with the Foster Grandparent Program at Jonathan Valley Elementary School.

A single mother for more than 50 years, Ruth raised four sons in Western North Carolina and now has six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. After living in Waynesville and Georgia, she moved to Givens Great Laurels 16 years ago at her son’s encouragement and has called it home ever since. “I’ve really enjoyed living here,” she says.

Ruth previously worked five years as a receptionist at Givens Highland Farms, but service has always been at the heart of her life. After a long career as a CNA, she felt called to work with children. She discovered the Foster Grandparent Program during a community meeting 16 years ago at Givens Great Laurels and has volunteered ever since.

The program, offered through Mountain Projects, connects older adults with children who need extra support in schools. Volunteers mentor, tutor, and build meaningful relationships with students. Each weekday, Ruth works with kindergarten through fifth-grade students, helping them with reading and basic skills. “There are about 60 children in the first grade alone,” she said, highlighting the need for extra support. She even uses her stipend to buy school supplies for her students.

At school, Ruth is greeted with hugs from children and staff throughout the day—a reflection of the bonds she’s built. Still, she says the experience has changed her just as much. “It has made me a kinder person and a better person,” she says. “Seeing what the children are going through—and helping them—keeps me from worrying about myself.”

Her impact extends beyond the classroom. Several neighbors at Givens Great Laurels have joined her in volunteering, inspired by her example. Social worker Michelle Frizzle shared she hopes to become “even a sliver of the greatness that Granny is” one day.

At home, Ruth continues caring for others—cooking meals, baking banana and zucchini bread, and canning green beans for neighbors. Her message to others is simple: “Get up and get out. You can do something to help someone else.”

After 16 years, Ruth’s presence is deeply felt both at Givens and at Jonathan Valley Elementary. “The children have helped me more than I’ve helped them,” she says—though to those around her, Granny’s impact is unmistakable.

Residents across Givens Communities are encouraged to follow Ruth’s lead by getting involved with causes they’re passionate about—whether in schools, nonprofits, or neighborhood initiatives.

You can also support the future of affordable communities like Givens Great Laurels by making a gift to help ensure more residents have opportunities to live, serve, and inspire! Learn more or donate today at https://givensphilanthropy.org/giving/