HALL OF FAME
Remembering our Grant Park leaders.
Located in one of the oldest neighborhoods in South Phoenix, Grant Park has been the heart of our community for generations. Together we have supported each other as community leaders, business owners, and good neighbors. We honor the legacy of the individuals and families who have grown up around the park. Their voices and leadership continue to inspire our commitment to the Grant Park neighborhood.
Linda Abril
Linda Abril was raised directly across the street from Grant Park.
She was the elder of 13 brothers and sisters who were raised by a single parent. She never finished high school, but later in life she obtained a college degree while herself a single parent. She became the longest serving board member of the Phoenix Union High School System, serving for more than 24 years. The school district honored her by naming an alternative high school aimed at at-risk students.
Armando Ganadrilla
Armando Gandarilla was a home-grown product of the Grant Park neighborhood.
His family lived in Grant Park for several generations. His family owned and operated a family restaurant which provided groceries to the residents. As a respected community leader, he later became a probation officer assisting several youths who came in contact with the correctional system. Mr. Gandarilla later was appointed Justice of the Peace representing the Grant Park community by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. Served his beloved Grant Park community his entire life addressing critical issues affecting the residents of Grant Park.
Mark Andrade
Mark Andrade lived directly across the street from Grant Park.
He was also raised by a single parent. Upon completion of his military service, he enrolled at Arizona State University where received his college degree. He also graduated with academic honors being named Summa Cum Laude by the University. Mr. Andrade became a respected probation officer. He was employed in the city of Phoenix Mayors office and was instrumental in the development of the Hope 6 Project housing project for low-income residents.
Ruben Calderon
Ruben Calderon was the park director at Grant Park.
He mentored hundreds of youths providing them with much needed encouragement to obtain a quality education. Mr. Calderon was a veteran and past commander of American Legion Post 41. He served as a teacher for several inner-city schools for more than 40 years. He was known as an educator who deeply believed in education for all his students. As a member of Post 41 he raised thousands of dollars for financial aid for scholarships for his students who resided in the Grant Park barrio.
Raymond Buchanan
Raymond Buchanan was raised in the Grant Park neighborhood to a large family.
He later became a respected community leader while employed by the City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services. He is known as a person who always lends a helping hand to those less fortunate. His expertise is in providing annual fundraisers for those who need financial assistance in times of need. Mr. Buchanan today is still providing exceptional leadership to the residents of Grant Park.