Dream big, work hard - more than just a motto, but words lived by from Michael Anderson, NASA astronaut and AESD alum. Our school, named after him, is proud to continue to share his legacy to our children. We remember who he was in today's episode with stories from his younger sister, Brenda Danielly.

Author of The Krayon Kids shares how her mission of teaching inspired her to become an author and write for generations to come. From once teaching in classrooms to teaching through her stories, her books focus on lessons that transcend time.

For more information, visit thekrayonkids.com

In March 2014, a group of Avondale-Goodyear community members gathered to create a vision for a non-profit foundation to support the Avondale Elementary School District. This group included parents, business owners, former and current employees, government officials and graduates of the district. They held a common desire to empower the students and staff of the District by providing opportunities for scholarships and honoring the excellent work of the staff in preparing students for the future.

Learn more in today's episode or visit www.avondalegoodyeareducationfoundation.org

Since the start of the academic year, Desert Star has led a new vision with Project Y.E.S. - turning talents into possibilities.

The program develops students to believe in themselves, work towards goals and take dreams off the shelf. Hard work is the key, but everything’s possible.

Starting with kindergartners through middle school, all students will participate in talent development and building thinking and problem-solving skills within their daily curriculum. The curriculum involved has been awarded for six consecutive years by the National Association for Gifted Children. Learn more in today's conversation.

Since January 2018, Arizona Service Project has worked with local and regional volunteers to provide free, impactful home repair for low-income families in the Avondale/Goodyear area, along with surrounding communities. We envision a community without substandard housing, where multiple generations live in safe, sustainable homes.

To learn more about Arizona Service Project, please visit arizonaserviceproject.com

More than a pledge, the Kid At Hope philosophy is guiding people of all ages to continue pursuing their futures without limits. AESD's first Kid At Hope award recipient has maintained the pledge in mind and she shares how this mindset has paved the path for success as she navigates adulthood.

Local business owners Laura and Robin started a business based off a hobby - the results were nationwide recognition as the best burger place in Arizona, strengthening a community and spreading love with each bite. Learn more about their inspiring story about hard work, dedication and going after your dreams.

To learn more about Laura's Burgers, visit their Instagram @laurasburgersandmore

Are you ready to join a community of exceptional leaders that advance commerce and quality of life in the West Valley? Leadership West empowers individuals to do just that. With ample resources to curriculum and professional development experiences such as Leadership West Flagship Program and Leadership West Institute, passionate leaders evolve and advance to become civic-minded leaders who actively engage in making a difference in our communities.

Together, we inspire to shape the West Valley.

Hey Babe Group was created to continue the legacy of coach Wayne De Combe - a former Agua Fria Union High School District baseball coach. He was also inducted into the Arizona Coaches Association and Arizona Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Through his trajectory of always helping youth in the community, members created the organization to continue his legacy. Proceeds from the Hey Babe Group events go toward community programs helping such as the Homeless Youth Connection, Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank. Southwest Lending Closet, local community programs and the Agua Fria High School baseball program in honor of him . To learn more, visit heybabegroup.org