Page 16 June 2 0 14 Andy Everroad Lawyer Dad to Ashley, Taylor and Nia Family and faith are two driving forces in the lives of the Everroads. Growing up in Phoenix and even attending Christ Lutheran School as a child, Andy Everroad spent a lot of time in Arcadia as a child. “My friends and I would have orange fights among the now-fewer orange groves,” said Andy. “Our family moved to Arcadia four years ago.” The Everroads enjoy Arcadia because of the close-knit community. And the greenery doesn’t hurt. “Arcadia is very much a front patio neighborhood, which is evidenced by the amount of outdoor furniture you see driving around,” said Andy. “When we moved in, Barb and I wanted to be intentional about getting to know our neighbors, so we built a fire pit in the front yard with the hope of having a gathering place for our neighbors.” The connection the family feels with Now Open for Summer Fun! 602.956.2302 - reservations foothillspetresort.com - book online 3165 E Lincoln Dr., #110 Phoenix, AZ 85016 Between Starbucks & Pet Club • Individual & Family Suites • All Inclusive Group Play • Outdoor Grassy Runs • Professional Grooming • Express Wash & Dry Appts their neighbors stems directly from the love and respect they have for each other, under their own roof. “Ashley (17), finishing up her junior year at Arcadia, is possibly the most empathetic person I know with a real heart for people who feel different, overlooked, and excluded,” said this proud father. “Taylor (15), finishing up her freshman year at Arcadia, is naturally gifted with children – they are drawn to her, and she has always been very confident taking care of even the youngest child.” And the newest addition to the Everroad family is the gift they all cherish. “Nia was our third foster child, and we were blessed to pick her up from the hospital when she was just two days old. She’s been with us ever since, and she forever became a part of our family on May 1. She truly is a gift from God, and we are all so blessed to have her,” said Andy. When it comes to giving back, this family is dedicated and determined. “Our passions tend to be as either a couple or as an entire family,” said Andy. “Barb and I have long histories with Christ Lutheran School, where I attended, where Barb taught for several years, and where Ashley and Taylor both attended.” And for the last 15 years, the family has been involved with Scottsdale Bible Church, where Andy is currently completing his second term on the Elder Board. Andy and Barb have taught Sunday school classes and have co-led a foster and adoption support group. Recently they even kicked off a Foster Care & Adoption Ministry at Scottsdale Bible Church to educate the community on the need for direct and indirect participation in fostering and adoption. “The Arcadia neighborhood has given so much to us and to our neighbors, but that’s because others have invested time and energy into the individuals and establishments in Arcadia,” said Andy. “We all need to continue to be a part of that. We can’t sit back and expect others to do what needs to be done.” Lorenzo Alexander Arizona Cardinals Linebacker Dad to Vanessa, Zoie, Mason and one on the way For Arizona Cardinal’s linebacker Lorenzo Alexander, giving back has always come naturally. And since arriving in Phoenix two years ago, Lorenzo has made a point of helping out in any way he can. Growing up in Oakland, California, it was instilled in Lorenzo at a young age to give of both time and resources. “Faith also plays a part in it,” said Lorenzo. “It’s important to understand and be thankful for all I’ve been given.” Now he and his wife Manjanique are making it a point to show their children Vanessa (18), Zoie (6) and Mason (4) the same values they hold so close. Lorenzo has worked with the Kidney Foundation and the American Diabetes Foundation for many years. Diabetes runs in his family and Lorenzo knows how these organizations can do so much to help those in need. “I’m really just a champion of the cause,” said Lorenzo. “I can use the NFL platform, help get the names of the organizations out there in the minds of the people and advocate for them.” And with the Cardinal Foundation, Lorenzo has participated in multiple events at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, especially when Barney the therapy dog comes to cheer up the kids. Lorenzo and Manjanique have made it a point to bring the children to volunteer and charity events when possible, although Lorenzo mentions he wants the kids to be old enough to understand and appreciate the message. Vanessa, however, has gone to South America to build homes and participate in aide services. “We get lost about what reality really is,” said Lorenzo. “We live in such a nice area and I want my kids to learn about the world. When it makes sense, I definitely bring them along.” Andy Everroad and the ladies in his life. The Alexander team. Dads Continued from page 15

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