Name: Miguel Gaxiola

Age: 46.

Business name: Rain Gutter Express.

Contact information: 602-300-7472; Miguelgaxiola9@gmail.com

Town/Neighborhood: Maricopa County.

Hours of operation: 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday; Saturdays and sometimes Sundays and holidays.

Personal background highlights: Originally from Sonora Mexico, residing here in sunny Arizona since 2005. Working and living the American dream.

Professional background highlights: I have over 17 years of rain gutter experience in customer service, sales and installation.

What I do: I help protect homeowner’s investments with rain gutter solutions and systems.

What I like most about doing business here: I like being able to have freedom and rights. The choice to have a successful business that allows me to spend time with my family and friends, to be happy and enjoy life. I like making a difference and giving back to our community.

Previous occupation and why I left: I worked and managed the neighborhood hardware store in Mexico before coming to the states.

Changes I’d like to see in this area: I would like to see positive changes within our homeless population. Motivation and action to provide solutions, and resources to those of us in our world who are less fortunate.

What am I promoting: I am promoting rain gutter installation, products and services that protect our homes.

What I’m excited about and why: I’m excited about being alive, being happy, healthy, and prosperous.

Favorite community cause and why: My family and friends.

When and why I started my business/employment here: We started our family owned and operated business here because we can and to live a good life and build a strong economy.

Where I was before and why I left: I lived in my home state of Sonora, Mexico. I left there to come to the U.S. to build a better life for myself and family.

My family: I have been happily married for 17 years. My wife and I have two wonderful children. A son, Luis, a daughter, Elizabeth and a dog, named Lizzy.

My interests & hobbies: I love spending time with my family, friends and dog. Having great experiences and making memories. I love cooking, grilling, and music. I am obsessed with cars; I love driving, collecting and working on them.

People who inspire me (and how): My dad. He is the hardest working man I know. He has taught me to put your family first.

My guiding philosophy: Dream big, Work hard, and Have integrity and it will take you far in life. Go big or go home!

My advice to today’s youth: Believe in yourself and you can achieve anything. Say it out loud and it will happen.