Very American Like You

Freedom means something to a lot of people. For Craig Ambrosio, he’s built his life around the freedom to discover, create, and learn. To discover new destinations on a Road King, to create solutions for his fellow neighbors, and to learn from his kids what it means to be a father and role model. When asked the meaning of Very American®, Craig replied, “We can all agree on the statement, but it has a different meaning to everyone. It is the freedom to have diversity of thought.” 

Derek Griesbach is good at…well, everything. He’s an academic, a teacher, a carpenter, and now, a producer. How can one man be so many things?  Well, he’s an American, and as an American, we have the privilege to chase our dreams. Derek grew up in Appleton, Wisconsin. Fishing, working hard, and getting into mischief accounted for most of Derek’s childhood along with his four other siblings. One day, he plans to create a homestead where all of his hobbies can collide. What are these hobbies? Read more to find out!

Meet Jean Tanis, a woman knocking down barriers and entering a male dominated field with nothing but determination and love for the great outdoors. Jean grew up in the East Village of Manhattan. With no need for a car in the City and minimal access to nature, the path she chose later in life was surprising to say the least. With knowledge, grit, a few bruised knees, and a whole lot of cardio, Jean opened her eyes not only to Mother Nature but to the organization that can help conserve the natural wonders of our world.

As soon as she could hold a pencil, Andrea Forde began sketching. Her childhood was a bit like pop rocks. Some fireworks - and let’s be honest, discomfort - have to occur before the sweet candy begins to chill. As a young girl growing up in Mattapan, MA, she quickly became privy to the chaotic environment that often lurks in low income neighborhoods. During the school year, she was part of the METCO Program which promotes educational opportunities while increasing diversity in Boston’s suburbs. But school only accounts for so much of a day. At home, Andrea filled her hours with art. Distractions fell into the background as creating became her conscious reality.

Lori Barrett is a creator. When she was laid off from her job in the insurance industry, she found a new direction. As an artist, Lori knew she wanted a job where she could work with her hands while her art created a positive impact. Lori discovered NEADS World Class Service Dogs. She explained, “Working for a non-profit that made a positive impact in the lives of others was at the top of my list." Her personal and professional artwork is heartwarming, and we couldn’t agree more with Lori's sentiment. To show our support, we’re donating 10% of all sales THROUGH THE MONTH OF APRIL to NEADS World Class Service Dogs.

Crystal Guglielmo is a power house. At just 20 years old, Crystal is working three jobs, all of which are dedicated to helping others. To understand where Crystal is now, first we must trace her origin story - as you would with any superhero. We have nothing but gratitude for Crystal and her service - locally and nationally.  She is the definition of a “Good Egg” and she’s just starting out.  We can’t wait to see how her Very American® career unfolds.

Meet Sean Tobin, the next musician you'll be raving about. Self-taught in the New Jersey bar scene and during his time spent busking on the streets of Galway, Ireland, Sean quickly gained a loyal following. If you ask us, Sean embodies the Very American Dream.  His lyrics and vocals unite the room on a dance floor.  His charisma and kind heart are tangible at every show.  Sean is becoming the very inspiration he discovered in his own influencers.