2025 Ride Beneficiary
Our primary beneficiary for this year's Rotary Ride is Aztecas Youth Soccer Academy.
The Aztecas Youth Soccer Academy, founded in 2008 by Santa Cruz County Probation Officer Gina Castañeda, is a transformative mentorship program dedicated to reclaiming the lives of at-risk youth in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. Drawing from her own challenging upbringing, Gina established the academy to provide an alternative to gang involvement and violence, using soccer as a unifying and empowering tool.
Serving primarily young males aged 13-20 referred due to gang affiliations or high-risk behaviors, the Aztecas Youth Soccer Academy offers more than just athletic training. Participants benefit from personalized mentorship, academic support, life skills training, and the opportunity to engage in organized soccer. This comprehensive approach fosters both personal and athletic growth, steering youth away from negative influences and towards positive community engagement.
Beyond the core program, Aztecas hosts annual summer camps for younger children aged 6-14, teaching soccer skills, promoting healthy lifestyles, and instilling values of sportsmanship and teamwork. These camps not only provide constructive activities during the summer but also allow older participants to give back as mentors and coaches, reinforcing a cycle of positive role modeling within the community.
By investing in the Aztecas Youth Soccer Academy, supporters provide hope, opportunity, and a pathway to a brighter future for those who need it most, fostering a safer and more vibrant community for all.
