Through our programs, we aim to foster holistic development by offering a diverse range of recreational activities, educational workshops, and immersive learning opportunities. By combining the power of play, exploration, and education, we seek to inspire curiosity, ignite the imagination, and cultivate essential life skills in the children we serve.

We believe that every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and excel, regardless of their socioeconomic background. By engaging with our community partners, volunteers, and dedicated team, we strive to create safe and inclusive spaces where children can discover their unique strengths, build self-confidence, and form lifelong connections with their peers.

Through our commitment to collaboration and innovation, we actively seek partnerships with local schools, businesses, and organizations to expand our reach and impact. By working together, we can create a sustainable network of support, ensuring that children from under-served communities in Chula Vista have the tools and opportunities they need to unlock their full potential.

Together, let's transform lives, inspire dreams, and cultivate a thriving community where every child has the opportunity to flourish.

Ashley Gonzalez

Ashley retired from the United States Navy as a Chief Logistics Specialist. He continues to serve his community as a member of the South County Economic Development Council and the Imperial Beach Lions Club. He is also a board member of the National Veterans Transition Service Inc.

He is an Edward Jones financial advisor. With his Branch Office Administrator, Tanya Yates, their office primarily partners with small business owners, professionals, and those who are nearing retirement. They help develop comprehensive strategies tailored toward their financial goals.  

Martin Calvo

Martin has held prominent executive positions in several international organizations and was the founder of two manufacturing companies. 

In addition to his professional achievements, Martin has dedicated his time to public service and community involvement; Chairman of the City of Chula Vista Economic Development Commission and the City of Chula Vista Parks and Recreation Commission.

Gilbert Contreras

Gil Contreras has worked for the City of Chula Vista for the past 8 years and is currently filling the role of the Acting Deputy Director of Community Services. Prior to that, Gil spent 20 years with the Boys & Girls Clubs of South County as the Director of Operations. He has lived in Chula Vista for the past 40 years with his wife and 4 children. Gil is passionate about his work in the community and enjoys his role as the City Liaison for the FRIENDS.

Guy Chambers

Guy is a retired Captain with the San Diego Sheriff's Deparment. He has 32 years of law enforcement experience. His diverse knowledge extends to many facets of law enforcement operations. Such as: Jail and Patrol Operations, Internal Affairs, Emergency Management, Critical Incidents, Street Gangs, Street Narcotics, Joint Terrorism Groups, etc. In his private life, Guy is a Law Enforcement consultant, specializing in background investigations and leadership and management training.

J. Leo Ulloa

Dr. J. Leo has worked in K12 public education for over 22 years. He is a DoD/STEM Ambassador and is committed to increase the STEM workforce pipeline in our country. Currently, he is the principal of Launch Virtual Academy.

*J. Leo is a founding board member of the STEAM Ahead Foundation and co-creator of South bay Pumpkin Smash. He also serves in the Eastlake Educational Foundation and the Friends of Chula Vista Park and Recreation Foundation. He is a past board member of Science Delivered Foundation.

Tim Farmer

Tim Farmer is the Director of Recreation & Golf Services for the City of Coronado. Tim is a lifelong Chula Vista resident and served his home community for 26 years working for the Chula Vista Parks and Recreation Department before taking the executive position in Coronado. Tim enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 boys, playing golf, surfing, and playing guitar. Tim desires to see the less fortunate youth of Chula Vista given opportunities to participate in the health and wellness benefits that recreation programs and services provide.

Jan Buddingh, Jr. 

Jan is a civil litigation defense attorney at Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani in San Diego. He's served on boards and commissions for the City of Chula Vista for 18 years (and counting) and is a former chair of the city's Park and Recreation Commission. He is currently the vice-chair of the city's Charter Review Commission and volunteers as a Pro Tem Judge in Small Claims Court.

Most of Jan's volunteer time is spent on behalf of the American Youth Soccer Organization, where, in addition to refereeing and teaching others how to referee, he is a regional Safety Director and the Child and Volunteer Advocate for all the AYSO regions in the South Bay. He is also the chair of the AYSO National Legal Commission. And if you've read this far, it should not come as a shock that most Sundays will find Jan out playing soccer.