This post is part of our “Dads Making a Difference” series, spotlighting fathers who are an active part of the community and preventing teen substance abuse.

Anthony Madera is a father who opens his door to any child who enters his life. He has four wonderful children of his own, but he frequently hosts at-risk kids in his home. He serves as a basketball coach for a Native American youth team, and the boys enjoy their time with Anthony and his family.

He works very hard to make ends meet for his family, but regardless of finances he puts his own and other kids first. He actively recruits high risk youth to play basketball on the Indian reservation, and promotes healthy activities in Native communities. He is the parent of a child with special needs, and his family’s goal is to help other youth play sports, regardless of any barriers or disabilities.

Most of all, Anthony never gives up – he goes out of his way to offer his own and other kids the opportunity to participate in healthy activities. On the weekends, he is always willing to pick up other kids and drive them to games, or just encourage them to join his family in their bike riding and other activities. Anthony believes in the kids in his community, and they believe in and trust him also. Anthony is a runner and works out every day at Lummi Fitness Center. He has run in a marathon and has no plans to stop moving forward.