We are just a few weeks away from once again teeing up for a great cause at EveryStep’s Good Grief Golf Outing 2026. Dozens of companies from across the metro area will be represented among the foursomes – including a pair of teams from American Equity.
But that is no surprise. Wherever EveryStep is raising funds and awareness, American Equity is likely right by their side. From the first tee at Good Grief Golf until the last gift is wrapped during Amanda the Panda’s Cheer Box campaign – American Equity is there for EveryStep.
“At American Equity, our mission is to provide industry-leading retirement products and services that empower our customers to achieve a secure and fulfilling retirement. Our EPIC values (Empowered, Passion, Integrity, Caring) represent the foundation of our success and guide us in all that we do,” says Billy Backer, American Equity’s Senior Vice President Budget, Expense, & Transformation, “We believe in the power of CARING for our employees, communities, and clients. EveryStep’s connection to that is simple – our shared goal is providing everyone with safety, security, and peace of mind throughout their lives.”
EveryStep’s deep connection to American Equity begins with Billy Backer. Backer has been a member of EveryStep’s Board of Trustees for five years now. When he joined the team at American Equity, he brought his love for EveryStep with him.
“I have been a member of EveryStep Board of Trustees since 2021, when a colleague of mine connected me with Julie Matternas. Julie & Tray’s inspirational leadership, along with each employee I meet - and each heartfelt story that is shared - has driven my desire to make a lasting impact to an organization that means so much to the communities we serve,” Baker says, “When I joined American Equity in 2023, it was always my intent to foster a greater connection between EveryStep and American Equity.”
And that connection has only grown stronger over the years, reinforced – Backer says – by every story he hears about the work EveryStep does in the community thanks to the empowerment of leaders like him and companies like American Equity.
“(The best part is) getting to see, hear, and read about the endless impacts on our communities. Whether it be our “time, talent, or treasure,” we know exactly where our efforts are going.”
