Get to know the newest Peoria Independent Hometown Hero - Sun City Independent (2024)

For his service to the Peoria community, Axiom Lead Pastor Gavin Linderman, has been named the Peoria Independent Hometown Hero in the spiritual leader category for 2023.

The Hometown Heroes Awards are a celebration of individuals who live, work or teach in the city, and Peoria businesses for their achievements and distinguished contributions to the community and beyond.

Linderman will be honored at an awards luncheon next year.

In partnership with the city of Peoria, he will also be interviewed by the city and aired on Channel 11.

Get to know Linderman more here.

What I like most about lFiving/working in Peoria: I love Peoria because of the people. A good city has everything that Peoria has; great opportunity, good schools, diversity and values. But Peoria isn’t a good city, it’s a great city because of the people that call it home. My neighbors are one-of-a-kind. Living here and working here has provided the privilege of living life amongst a community that not only I can love but can be loved. I’m grateful to call it home.

Personal background highlights: I am a husband and father in south Peoria with a heart for the Gospel of Jesus. I believe strongly in engaging in the arts and culture as means for creating space for community in my neighborhood that goes beyond the comforts of suburban life. I want to bump shoulders with others and inspire the best in people.

Professional background highlights: I am an accomplished artists, business owner and church planter.

What does it mean to be a Peoria resident/worker? It means contributing to society not just to take from it. As a resident and worker in Peoria I wish to leave it better than I found it.

What do you think you bring to the local community that makes it better? I don’t know how to say that I have made it better, but we certainly have. My heart has been to create space for people to experience Jesus, love Peoria and be together. Only a community can do that not just one man.

What would you tell people about why it’s important to make a difference? I think I would ask what’s the alternative? We all must be good stewards of what God has given us. Acting responsibly in love for others is the mark of a good person.

Changes I’d like to see in this area: I want to see south Peoria residents invest in their neighborhoods for the good will of others. Start business, clubs, street food, music and the arts as a means to share your hearts with others.

My family (what have they taught you): My family has taught me to live for more than myself. They have taught me humility.

My interests and hobbies: I enjoy concerts, learning, sipping good coffee and beer with friends and family.

The trait(s) I admire in others: I appreciate thoughtfulness, simplicity and present people. Its rare to find people of presence.

People who inspired me (and how): There is an elderly man who lives near where I work. Many of the homes in that neighborhood have irrigation. Each day I see this man driving around working on the irrigation. He is far to old to be doing the work, but there he is, working hard despite his challenges. He has been a reminder of the kind of people in our city. Good, hard working, and humble. I’m inspired by that.

My guiding philosophy: Honesty is a virtue I preach and give my all too. Too many people entertain the lies and deny themselves the dignity that only the truth can bear fruit in.

My advice to today’s youth: Don’t ever take the easy road.

Name a couple future goals: My greatest goals are to enjoy my kids — to learn to love what they love and to witness them experience the freedom that only the grace of God can a give person.