Member Spotlight

October 19, 2021
Charity Ruhl, director and coach of Falcon Gymnastics-Monessen (District 4000-Sokol USA, Lodge 47) was named one of the 25 national winners of Positive Coaching Alliance's (PCA) Double-Goal Coach® Awards. She was the only gymnastics coach named this year! The national winners were selected by a panel of nine sports and business professionals who served as judges for PCA's awards.

According to the PCA website, the organization has partnered with the Amateur Athletic Alliance (AAU) since 2010 and offers education courses for coaches and team administrators. “A Double-Goal Coach has two goals: winning, and the even more important goal of teaching life lessons through sports.” 

Any youth or high school sports coach in the U.S. with at least three years’ experience is eligible for PCA’s Double-Goal Coach® Award. Once a coach is nominated and passes a background check, they are notified and asked to respond to four short essay questions and to submit email addresses for between 3 and 20 references.

The following is an excerpt from one of the references submitted for Charity that was posted on the PCA announcement of the 2021 winners:


"Charity always puts the gymnasts and her coaching staff above all else. This isn’t a business to her. This is a place where kids can come, have fun, learn gymnastics and know that their coach really cares about them. Charity gets to know the girls and families well. She has made the girls feel like they are part of another family. She represents hard work and commitment to the sport. She inspires so many kids and dedicates a ton of her time to coaching and supporting."


Congratulations Charity! Your Sokol family always knew you were an excellent coach and mentor. Your national PCA award confirms this to the entire gymnastics’ world. Keep up the great work. Nazdar! (On to success!)


November 20, 2024
Winter is a perfect time to bond with family and create cozy, memorable moments. From fun games to creative crafts, here are some top indoor activities to bring everyone together.
November 13, 2024
Since its launch in 2014, the Welcome Home program by Operation Troop Appreciation has become a beacon of support for veteran families, impacting thousands who’ve bravely served but now face the challenges of civilian life. The program fills a crucial gap by helping prevent homelessness and poverty among veterans and providing much-needed assistance as they establish new lives.
November 7, 2024
In honor of Veterans Day, GBU compiled a blog featuring those who have served our country. GBU members were invited to share stories of the veterans in their lives, helping to honor their service and sacrifices and ensuring their legacy is remembered and celebrated.
November 4, 2024
In a world filled with busy schedules, digital distractions and seemingly endless goals, it can be easy to forget to pause and appreciate what we already have. Here are some practical ways to bring thankfulness into your daily routine.
November 1, 2024
Winter is a magical time filled with holidays and the warmth of togetherness. It’s the perfect season to start traditions that your kids will look forward to every year. Here are some creative ideas to start your family’s unique winter traditions!
October 29, 2024
As winter rolls in and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to shift focus indoors and tackle some projects. Here are five effective strategies to organize your home this winter.
October 28, 2024
These practical steps will help you stay cozy and save on energy bills all season long.
Two people hugging
October 16, 2024
Wondering how your donation to The GBU Foundation fuels opportunities and growth in communities? Here you'll find stories from some of the the 2024 Community Grant Award winners.
Person sitting on floor packing luggage
October 15, 2024
Here are a few handy tips to keep in your back pocket while traveling for Thanksgiving.
Backpacker outside on a hike
October 14, 2024
Four fall activities that can also serve as a workout.
More Posts
Share by: