For Andrew Draayer, supporting local charities is an inseparable part of his business. Draayer owns Andrew The Homebuyer, which makes the process easy for homeowners to sell for cash in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada and Florida.
As a 25-year resident of Arizona raising three children with his wife, Draayer is known for his passion for helping others and infectious optimism.
Even in his real estate deals, Draayer is unique for bringing a human touch that puts people first.
That’s why charitable work comes so naturally.
“Giving back is something I deeply believe in,” Draayer said. “I’ve been blessed with opportunities and success, and I don’t take that for granted.”
Supporting St. Jude Hospital And Kids Fighting Cancer
One of the company’s most successful fundraisers took place in 2024, when Draayer pledged to donate $1,000 for every house sold during the winter holidays. The grand total came to $78,000.
The funds went to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to help the families of children going through cancer.
Draayer and his staff decided to help St. Jude because a friend introduced them to an Arizona girl named Bridget, who lost a leg below the knee to bone cancer when she was only 6 years old.
After 10 months of treatment at St. Jude, Bridget is now a cheerful teenager who plays volleyball, swims and even was invited to walk in a fashion show.
“I saw the magic of St. Jude,” her mom Jamie said.
With the help of donations like those from Andrew The Homebuyer, the hospital pays for all medical treatment, housing, food and travel so that parents can focus on their children.
St. Jude also covered the cost of Bridget’s two prosthetic legs — one for walking and the other for sports — which can cost $10,000 to $15,000 each.
“I’ve learned to never give up, even if that means finding a different way to accomplish your goals,” Bridget said.
Since St. Jude opened over 50 years ago, treatments developed there have increased the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to more than 80%.
As a father, Draayer said Bridget’s story touched him.
“When I think about the kids and families at St. Jude facing medical battles that no one should have to go through, it moves me to do what I can to help,” he said.
Making The Holidays Brighter For East Valley Families
Another organization Draayer supports is the Chandler Compadres.
This civic group consists of 100 local members who fundraise for charities that serve disadvantaged East Valley children and families through youth academic and development programs.
Notable members of the Compadres include former Chandler Mayor Jim Patterson, Michael Basha of Bashas’ Grocery and John Chapman of Chapman Chevrolet.
The Compadres also collect food, clothing and toys every holiday season at an event hosted at the Chandler Airport to give to families in need.
One of Draayer’s employees supported the organization and asked if Andrew The Homebuyer could pitch in.
So far the company has raised more than $40,000 for the Compadres, which goes to support the Chandler Education Foundation, Boys & Girls Club, Child Crisis Center and other worthy causes.
“The Chandler Compadres do incredible work in supporting kids who need a better start in life,” Draayer said. “I know what it’s like to work hard for everything, but I also had a great support system. If I can be that kind of help to someone else, why wouldn’t I?”
Ensuring No One Goes Hungry
The third cause close to Draayer’s heart is Midwest Food Bank, which began in Illinois but has expanded across the country.
The Arizona branch, which opened in 2017 in Gilbert and Tucson, distributes food donations to over 260 agency partners.
Draayer connected with the food bank through a friend who helped the organization purchase the Gilbert warehouse.
Now Andrew The Homebuyer sponsors its yearly golf tournament, giving nearly $60,000 over the years to fight hunger across the state.
“Ensuring no family goes hungry is something every American should do what they can to support,” Draayer said. “It’s inspiring how much good Midwest Food Bank does with every dollar they receive. Our company is proud to stand behind them.”