The CFC Foundation
Building Champions Beyond the Ring
The CFC Foundation exists to help youth build confidence, discipline, and resilience through structure, guidance, and physical training. We address bullying at its root by teaching self-defense, accountability, and leadership — not fear. Our mission is simple: help kids become strong enough to stand up for themselves and others.
Why We Exist?
Bullying doesn’t end in childhood — it shapes confidence, mental health, and future opportunity. In communities like the Borderland, where many kids already face economic and social pressure, those effects multiply. We step in early to build strength before confidence is lost.
Our Approach
We don’t rely on lectures, therapy alone, or temporary motivation. Our programs combine physical training, self-defense, discipline, and mentorship to build real confidence. Kids learn how to carry themselves with respect, awareness, and control — inside and outside the gym.
From Protection to Leadership
Our youth programs are designed to grow with each participant. From learning basic awareness and boundaries, to developing resilience, to becoming leaders and role models, every stage builds on the last. The goal isn’t just safer kids — it’s stronger future leaders.
23.8%
Nearly one in four youth in El Paso County live in poverty, increasing exposure to bullying and long-term risk. Without intervention, these pressures limit confidence, education, and opportunity.
34%
Over one-third of U.S. teens report being bullied each year. The effects often show up as anxiety, disengagement from school, and loss of self-worth that can last into adulthood.
100%
Every child who completes our program gains practical tools for self-defense, confidence, and leadership. The impact extends beyond the individual — families, schools, and communities benefit.
When Kids Gain Confidence, Communities Win
Confidence changes everything. Kids who feel capable stand taller, perform better in school, and make healthier decisions. By giving youth structure, discipline, and a sense of purpose, the CFC Foundation helps shape a generation that contributes, leads, and protects what matters.
The People Behind the Mission
Marco Vallejo Jr
Executive Chairman
Marco Vallejo is an El Paso–based entrepreneur focused on sports and live event experiences that advance the CFC Foundation’s self-defence, anti-bullying, and community-building mission. He leverages combat sports promotion and strategic partnerships to create platforms that build confidence, resilience, and champions in the community.
Heber Gandara
Treasurer
Heber Gandara is the founder and creative director of Axess Multimedia, a full-service advertising and production agency in El Paso with more than 25 years of experience in film, television, and digital media projects. He is recognized for high-end commercial and cinematic production, collaborating with major brands and networks while helping regional businesses and creators tell their stories with professional, visually driven campaigns.
Diego Acosta
Board Chairman
Diego Acosta is a community-focused leader with FirstLight Federal Credit Union and the FirstLight Community Foundation, helping drive financial education, scholarships, and service initiatives across the Borderland. Through his outreach work, he supports families, students, and nonprofits such as El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, reflecting the CFC Foundation’s vision of building champions in the community.
Lynda King
Secretary
Lynda King is the Marketing Director at Western Technical College in El Paso, leading brand visibility, student recruitment, and community outreach efforts. She brings extensive experience in strategic marketing and partnerships, including overseeing scholarship- and event-based initiatives that connect Western Tech with the broader El Paso community.
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Thank you
For helping us make community champions.