Ryan Larkin-Smith MS.Ed

Core Ministry & Beliefs The Aspen Grove Philosophy: Ryan views humanity and nature like an Aspen grove or a vast fungal network: while we may look like entirely separate individuals above ground, we are fundamentally one living, breathing organism sharing the same roots. The Journey Over the Destination: Much like a long motorcycle ride, life is about the ride itself. Ryan believes in staying present and intentional, ensuring we don't rush past the "flowers, trees, and birds" while trying to reach a destination. Practical Compassion: Recently celebrating six months of veganism, Ryan believes in taking tangible steps to care for the earth. Even when the problems (like global infrastructure and climate change) seem overwhelmingly large, individual actions matter. The Starfish Principle: Ryan’s approach to ministry and life is best summarized by the classic starfish story: We may not be able to save every starfish on the beach, but the effort matters profoundly to the one we throw back into the ocean. Doing the right thing is its own reward.

Having grown up on a cattle ranch in northwest Wyoming and spending his formative years in that setting, Ryan has expanded beyond those beginnings to Saipan, MP; Arizona, Nevada, and now Southern Oregon.

With a long history as a special education teacher and administrator, Ryan focuses on self-determination and social justice. Through the support of those on the fringes of society, his hope is to empower individuals. This dedication to tangible, real-world compassion is the very foundation of his ministry. Ryan finds his spirituality not in rigid dogma, but in the natural flow of life, the deep interconnectedness of our world, and the profound impact of helping others find their footing and their purpose.

Core Ministry & Vision

Empowerment Through Action: The driving force behind Ryan's ministry is the establishment of a non-profit organization designed to partner with transition programs. His vision is to create meaningful, sustainable employment opportunities for individuals with developmental and mental health needs within community-supporting industries, such as laundromats and storage facilities.

The Aspen Grove Philosophy: Ryan views humanity much like an Aspen grove: while we may look like entirely separate individuals above ground, we are fundamentally one living organism sharing the same roots. By uplifting those on the fringes, we strengthen the entire community.

The Journey Over the Destination: Much like a long motorcycle ride, Ryan believes life is about the ride itself. He values staying present and intentional, ensuring we don't rush past the beauty of the moment while trying to reach a destination.

The Starfish Principle: Ryan’s approach to both his non-profit work and his broader ministry is perfectly summarized by the classic starfish story. We may not be able to fix every massive systemic issue or save every starfish on the beach, but providing an individual with a job, dignity, and support matters profoundly to that one person.

I don't consider myself to be attached to any religion. I consider myself a learner of all and feel that the philosophy around taoism most accurately describes my focus.

I will follow your lead and recognize the importance of the ceremony but will also bring a lightness and openness to any ceremony I'm involved in.

I am a fierce advocate for inclusion through accommodations and assistive technology.