Name: Larry Cervarich.

Business name: Meals of Joy charity; email larryrosecity@aol.com or larry@mealsofjoy.org.

Town/neighborhood: MOJ services the greater west Valley. Cervarich is a Goodyear resident and the MOJ office is based in Litchfield Park.

Hours of operation: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Personal background highlights: Royal Rosarian, Portland, Oregon 30 years, Rotary Club 40 years.

Professional background highlights: Food Industry and ownership 40 years, founder of nonprofit Homeless Youth Connection 2009, nonprofit founder of Meals of Joy 2014.

What I do: I have founded and continue to support the work of two local nonprofits in the west Valley. My current focus is on the growth of Meals of Joy. 

What I like most about doing business here: The business growth in the west Valley.

Changes I’d like to see in this area: Transportation for the elderly.

What am I promoting: A simple meal program for seniors to enjoy. Freshly prepared daily and hand delivered by volunteers to seniors across the west Valley. Many meals are provided at low or not cost to those in need.

What I’m excited about and why: The media giving more recognition of seniors having medical and financial issues.

Favorite community cause and why: Meals of Joy. Many seniors lacking nutritious meals and need support in the west Valley, especially when facing inflation. 

When and why I started my business/employment here: Started in 2014 when I recognized the need to support seniors.

Where I was before and why I left: Native of Portland, Oregon. I grew tired of all the rain and relocated to sunny Arizona!

My family: Married 16 years, one son and two grandchildren.

My interests and hobbies: Enjoy the coastal areas, and fine restaurants.

People who inspire me (and how): Leaders of nonprofit charities and their mission of helping others.

My guiding philosophy: “Each day we are blessed.” “Make the best of it.”

My advice to today’s youth: Continue your education, and volunteer at a nonprofit organization!