About Us

California Youth Karate Club’s mission is to enrich the lives of young people through martial arts, using karate as a vehicle for personal growth, discipline, and positive decision-making. The nonprofit emphasizes no-to-low-cost access so that children from under-resourced communities can participate regardless of family income.

The club was founded by Hon. Hugo M. Rojas II, a 9th Degree Black Belt Master in Chinese Kenpo Karate and multi-time world champion who has dedicated his career to youth development and community safety. Rojas serves as Founder and Executive Director (C.E.O.), leading a team of masters and black belt instructors who mentor and coach students on and off the mat.

Programs are designed for “at-promise” youth ages 4–17, including those who may be facing academic challenges, behavioral struggles, or physical disabilities. Instruction is adapted so that students with diverse needs can participate fully, building confidence, coordination, and a sense of belonging.

California Youth Karate Club, Inc. partners with schools, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, community centers, and civic institutions to deliver structured karate classes in familiar, local settings. Each class integrates physical training with lessons on respect, self-control, social-emotional skills, and academic encouragement, turning practice time into a character-building experience.

Beyond kicks and punches, students learn how to diffuse bullying situations, manage emotions, and show respect for themselves, their peers, and authority figures. The long-standing continuity of the program—celebrating its 30th anniversary from 1994–2024—reflects its role as a stable, pro-social outlet helping keep youth safe, focused, and engaged in their communities.