“Just do something; even if it’s little, it’ll be vastly more helpful than doing nothing at all.” This is Al Raddatz’s motto, which he embraces on a daily basis. A member of the Class of 1989, Al is a co-founder and CEO of Sub Zero Mission, now in its 14th year of operation.
After high school, Al enlisted in the USMC, rising in the ranks to sergeant, during his service in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia and at duty stations in 29 Palms, California and Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. He served two years in the reserves upon completion of his active duty. Following the Corps he was employed by Progressive Insurance in various roles in the IT department for 21 years, retiring in 2018.
In retirement, Al works full-time for SZM. Quite a bit of what he does is administering fund raisers and events that secure the warm weather gear donated to the homeless. He organizes the volunteers and their trips to the various areas where they distribute the gear. Anyone wanting additional information should visit the website: subzeromission.org
Al is also involved as president of the family business, CORE 4 Enterprises. Additionally, he is a partner and board member of a local distillery, 7 Brothers Distilling Company.
Al has also been a loyal and active member of the Leroy VFW and generally finds ways to be of service. He was the graduation speaker at the Riverside 2019 graduation ceremony.
Al is married to Barb Freeman Raddatz, and they have two children, Shane and KJ. When the children were young, he coached youth sports. Now they enjoy their three grandchildren. Barb and Al make their home in Painesville Township.
