Cara Ruff is a nonprofit leader whose life’s work revolves around creating inclusive communities where everyone, regardless of ability or background, is treated with dignity. With over 28 years of experience running organizations that empower people with disabilities, veterans, and survivors of domestic violence, Cara has dedicated herself to ensuring no one is left behind. Through initiatives like Camp Bliss and the Starfish program, she has impacted countless lives and continues to champion resilience, empowerment, and servant leadership. Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature Cara’s story as an inspiration to our 5 million community members who believe in the power of He for She and She for She.
Q: What inspired you to step into this journey of running organizations?
Cara: My background is in social work, and I’ve always had a strong desire to help people live more independent, empowered lives—especially people with disabilities. I started at a community-based organization that I loved, but when it was sold off and dismantled, I faced a choice: do I move on or do I carry the mission forward? A few of us chose the latter. We literally started from our garages and basements with nothing but pens and pencils, and today, nearly three decades later, we have a thriving multi-million-dollar nonprofit serving people with disabilities across Minnesota.
Q: Beyond this, you’ve created other impactful initiatives. Could you share more?
Cara: Yes. Sixteen years ago, I wanted to address domestic violence and assault, drawing from my own experience as a survivor. That led to a coaching program that helps women rebuild and thrive, which recently became its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit called the Starfish program. About 11 years ago, I also started Camp Bliss, a retreat center for veterans and people with disabilities, offering life-changing experiences that bring healing and hope. Both of these projects are very close to my heart.
Q: Many women in our community speak about imposter syndrome. Have you faced it too?
Cara: Absolutely—even after 28 years, those doubts still creep in. I think most women face it at some point. The challenge is learning to recognize that you do have the expertise, the skills, and the right to be where you are. It’s real, but you have to keep moving forward despite it.
Q: Looking back, would you have done anything differently?
Cara: When we were just starting out, a lot of people tried to persuade us to fold into bigger organizations. I refused because I wanted to do it the right way, our way. People underestimated us, but I think success comes from fierce belief in yourself. You can’t give in to the naysayers—you just have to keep proving them wrong.
Q: What does success mean to you?
Cara: Success isn’t about ticking off goals; it’s about leaving someone or some community better than you found it. If we can make even a small positive impact, treat people with dignity, and help them move forward, then that’s success.
Q: What challenges have shaped your journey the most?
Cara: Funding is always a challenge. Learning to work with legislators, city officials, and grant systems was daunting at first. But it’s about courage and being willing to learn. My knees knocked the first time I testified at the legislature, but today I represent eight organizations and have brought in significant funding. It shows that you don’t need to know everything—you just need the will to learn.
Q: What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Cara: Resilience. I want people to remember me as someone who showed up every day, did the hard work, and never gave up. And equally, as someone who practiced servant leadership—leading by example, working alongside my team, and treating everyone with respect.
Q: Finally, what advice would you share with women in our community?
Cara: Believe in yourself. Don’t be discouraged by what you don’t know—seek out answers, surround yourself with people who are smarter than you, and stay humble enough to learn. Most importantly, don’t wait for anyone else’s approval. The belief has to come from within.
Q: What exciting projects are you currently working on?
Cara: The launch of the Starfish program as its own nonprofit is something I’ve dreamed of for years. It’s about helping women heal from trauma, breaking cycles of generational pain, and empowering them to create the lives they deserve. That’s the mark I want to leave on the community.
Connect with her
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cara-ruff-2a415b19
“As long as you show up every day with courage and resilience, you’ll find the strength to create change.” — Cara Ruff
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