Build Ashland likes to highlight one of our many talented volunteers, supporters, or a community advocate. These are people who are making a difference in our community by giving of their time, their talents, and their kindness to their fellow citizens. These volunteers are the heart and soul of Build Ashland.

Rick Ritchason

Build Ashland continues with the Volunteer highlights of some of our very best advocates for our city. They truly are making a difference and people are watching and getting inspired from it. We like to call them GIVERS.

Rick Ritchason is this month's Build Ashland Volunteer of the Month. When I first approached Rick about this, he said “I chose to join Build Ashland to be part of Change.” Rick has been visiting our beloved city for over 30 years but decided to move here 5 years ago. Once Rick arrived here for good, he noticed Ashland was struggling. Instead of complaining and wondering why no one was helping, in typical Rick fashion, he decided he needed to get involved. That’s when Rick came across the Build Ashland Facebook page. Seeing the differences the volunteers of BA were making, he wanted involved. “Build Ashland has allowed me to feel as if I am part of the solution and also part of Ashland. I now feel I have a vested interest.”

When you get the chance to work with Rick, you don’t forget it. He has a positive energy around him and he spreads it with an infectious smile and laugh. He seems to always be encouraging and pushing others to be their best. Rick has always been a giver and the compassion that he possesses has led him all over the world to help others. Rick served as a Flight Attendant for years, where he became a member of the airlines Customer Assistance Relief Effort (CARE). There he was able to help others by being involved in countless relief efforts with Katrina, Rita, Wilma, 9/11, to over 3 airline disaster sites both here in the U.S. as well as in Buga, Columbia. Rick was even honored with the "Unsung Hero Award" from the Dalai Lama for his efforts.

Rick wants to continue to be part of Build Ashland, continue to make connections with likeminded volunteers, and be ready for his time to help his beloved city, “The connections and friendships that I have built while being part of this amazing group will be life long, who can ask for more to be able to be involved with a cause you believe in and make friendships along the way. I hope to continue to be used in our community to ensure we keep moving towards the betterment of Ashland.”

Rick, we thank you for your tireless work that makes our city better every day. Build Ashland is a great thing but even better with you in it my friend. You know they say the sign of a good life is how good you made others feel when you were around them. By that measure sir, you are living a great life. #BuildAshland #BrightFuture #Community #Givers