Andrew Pickering

Born and raised in Arlington, Andy received his education at the University of Virginia. Since then, he has lived in Charlottesville Virginia, where he has worked as a carpentry contractor for more than 30 years and operates his own business, Abodeupgrades LLC.  Andy specializes in commercial/residential upfits and new construction, bringing together hands-on technical skills, long-standing professional relationships with subcontractors, communication, and problem-solving to deliver results for both new and longtime clients.

Andy is the proud father of three children – Althea, Inanna, and Jin Hyeon. More than 20 years ago, his family flew to Seoul to meet Jin and bring him to Charlottesville. Grace Song and ASIA Families has been an inspiration and resource for his family as they started learning about adoptee identity and emotional resilience. Jin was always ready and eager to make the 2.5 hour one-way road trip to Korean Culture School on Saturdays. 

Transcultural Korean adoption has brought great joy and heartache to his family.  He is learning to mange these coexisting emotions. Every ASIA Families event attended by his family has uplifted their spirits, increased their sense of community and touched on that sadness that is present with transcultural adoption.  

Andy is active in the local soccer referee community, officiating youth, high school, and adult matches throughout all seasons.  A veteran USSF and VHSL official of 18 years , he is committed to safety, fairness and the spirit of sport.  He is also  member of the Charlottesville Table Tennis Club (CTTC), and loves bringing his paddle wherever he travels!  

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