ABOUT ME

Hi, I'm Ann Ruth

WHERE I COME FROM

I was born in Cebu City, Philippines. I call Union City home since 1977. My journey embodies the American dream and a deep commitment to community service.

A THRIVING CAREER

I am a product of the New Haven Unified School District. I attended school at the former Cabello Elementary, former Alvarado Middle and James Logan High. With degrees in Psychology and Nursing from Cal State Hayward and San Jose State University, I have dedicated my career to helping others. Since 2015, I have worked at New Haven Unified School District, currently preparing students with special needs for independent living.

FAMILY

I still live in the same home where I grew up as a child. My household includes my mom, Belita; my brother, Rodney; my husband, Martin; my daughters, Megan and Madison; and our pets — Luna our dog, Simba our cat, and Poco our rabbit. As a caregiver for my late father Rodney with renal failure and my brother with special needs, I understand the challenges families face and the importance of accessible community support.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

As the founder of Rodney’s Hope, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, my mission is to raise awareness of Fragile X syndrome, provide compassionate and dignified support to individuals with special needs, and help members of our community who are needy and unhoused by providing hot meals and handing out care packages. I organize food drives, community cleanups, and the annual Christmas tree lighting. My current project is to install a peace pole in Old Alvarado Park.

LEADERSHIP

My extensive community involvement includes serving as Union City Human Relations Commissioner, Board Member of the Union City Chamber of Commerce, Board Member of Union City Friends of Sister City, Past President of FUN Sunset Rotary, Past President of Baybayanon of Northern California, and countless volunteer roles through St. Anne Catholic Church and civic organizations.