Member Spotlight: Ryan

Finding Community and Purpose

From the very first meeting, it was clear that Civitan was something Ryan wanted to be a part of. For Ryan, joining the Triangle Young Professionals Civitan was all about the people. "It was evident from the first meeting that its members truly cared and wanted to leave an impact in the community," Ryan shared. "And everyone was so welcoming." That sense of connection and shared purpose is what inspired him to get involved—and to keep coming back. And that’s exactly what Ryan has done. Ryan is a very active member of Triangle YP Civitan. He attends many events and meetings with a smile. If you’re thinking of coming to an event, chances are Ryan is there with a can-do attitude.

For Ryan, the magic of Civitan lies in the memories and friendships made along the way. One of his favorite moments came early on during a project at the YMCA, where volunteers built a gaga pit. "That event convinced me to keep coming back," they said. "I got to really connect with other members, and those relationships have lasted."

Building More Than Structures

Of all the service events Ryan has participated in, one stands out as a favorite-- Carolina Tiger Rescue. The group worked together to build a storage area for golf carts used to transport guests around the rescue grounds. "Helping with that project allowed the maintenance crew to focus on other tasks that support the animals," Ryan said. And the best part? Getting to meet the big cats themselves—including a few made famous by the Tiger King series. "It was such a cool experience that combined volunteering with something truly unique."

Pride in Service

When asked about a moment of pride, Ryan didn’t hesitate, volunteering for the Special Olympics of North Carolina (SONC) Summer Games. "Watching the kids compete and seeing how much joy they were having was incredible," Ryan said. "It was an honor to contribute to a day that was all about them and their achievements. Helping create a memory they’ll never forget was something I’ll never forget either." Triangle YP Civitan volunteers with SONC every year for their Summer Games. It’s a day filled with fun and competition. Our members help with the medal ceremony which is one of the nicest events of the day.

Why Civitan?

Whether it’s hammering nails, cheering on athletes, or lending a hand, Ryan exemplifies what it means to serve with heart. His journey is a reminder that volunteering isn’t just about the impact we make—it’s also about the people we meet and the experiences that shape us.

Thank you, Ryan for bringing your passion, energy, and kindness to our Civitan family. We’re so grateful to have you!