.“I’ve seen Chris in action with kids at campsites. He’s so big hearted. His thrust is martial arts, but he’s into anything the kids like—outdoor activities, physical fitness. . . anything.”Katie Valenzuela, Kino “Weed and Seed Coalition.”These days you are more likely to hear Chris quote Oliver Wendell Holmes or William Shakespeare than the tough street lingo of many of his students. Called a true Renaissance man by people who know him, Chris has placed a high value on education in the arts, science, politics, business and literature. He imparts the same values to the kids he teaches, often introducing them to activities they never knew existed. “My thirteen-year-old had a lot of problems, bad attitude, poor grades. I’ve seen so much change (since he started working with Chris). People ask, ‘How did you do it?’ He’s more polite, doesn’t talk tough and his grades have improved a lot.” Maribel Martinez, mother Chris is the father of three children, one of whom died in an auto accident at 17. He understands the emotional impact of seeing bad things happen to our children. His goal is to help every child who comes to TYCoA realize his or her full potential and reach adulthood a confident, productive member of society.“I spent over five years doing boxing training with Chris Valdez, and it wasn’t until recently that I realized all those years we were we were actually training for real life. He played a major role in shaping me into the man I am today. I feel like I can deal with whatever life throws at me.” Walid. A. Zarifi, attorney, Phoenix, AZSpecialties: Innovative Program developmentGrant writingTraining and supportPublic speakingTeaching and curriculum developmentCommunity development and mobilizationExcellent communication