Hey Tucson! I’m launching something called Ruby Independent Advocacy. (RIA)

Ruby is an advocacy project I created after years of doing this work on the ground in Tucson. I’ve witnessed first-hand how often people fall through the cracks. Not only due to known barriers, but also because navigating housing, healthcare, and all of these systems without real, consistent support is nearly IMPOSSIBLE.

Ruby exists to be that consistent, real human support.

This isn’t just a standard nonprofit or pilot program.

Ruby is actually flexible, relationship-based, and built around one crucial aspect - TRUST.

This is advocacy without the high barriers, excessive paperwork or rigid timelines. This is walking alongside people through each individual struggle. Assisting in navigation through medical systems, shelter and housing networks, court dates, and everything else in between. No hoops. No unfair “engagement criteria”. No cost. Just authentic person-first advocacy, in an alternative way!

If you know me, you know this has been my dream for YEARS. This is work and advocacy I already do. However, I have never been able to put all my energy and time in due to working within agencies, non profits and similar - until now!

Community Funding REALLY Matters!!!

Ruby is purposely small and independent (that’s what makes it work).

Community funding goes directly into sustaining this work in real time. This looks like: meeting people where they’re at (literally, physically), transportation, basic essential resources, admin costs, and the much needed ability to respond immediately when something urgent comes up. Every cent helps keep Ruby accessible, realistic, and rooted in this community.

$25 → Gas, food and supplies for an advocacy visit

$50 → Hours of direct support!

$100 → A full day of hands-on assistance and follow-up

$250+ → Sustains capacity to support multiple people CONSISTENTLY.

Truly every cent counts and sharing this page will help this project grow a ton!

If you believe people deserve realistic, low-barrier support and that real systems change often starts small, local and with trusted relationships - I’d be so eternally grateful for your support.

Ruby is built on the idea that people succeed when someone doesn’t give up on them. Everyone deserves access to water, food, shelter, community and care.

Thank you for being part of this project and believing in this work.

So much love, Victoria DeVasto

RiaTucson.com