It's not too late to register for KidWorks programs and summer camps. Click here to sign-up and learn more!
Register Today
Santa Ana has one of the largest youth populations in California. For decades, it has also been “park poor.” That means that children, youth and families in the city had very limited community recreation areas, green spaces, bike lanes or skate parks. Nearly 31% of the population of Santa Ana is under 18-years-old, making it one the youngest cities in the U.S. Beginning in 2016, a group of KidWorks youth set out to change all that.
Name: Hector Mora
City: Santa Ana
Role at KidWorks: KW Alum
How did you become involved with KidWorks?
I joined KidWorks as a preschool student and graduated high school in 2020. I am now enrolled in the OC Fire Authority academy and work part time at PTS marketing. My ultimate dream is to work for CalFire or the US Forest Service.
Share the most meaningful experiences you’ve had at KidWorks? What made them impactful to you?
Attending summer camp was life changing because I got to experience so many “firsts” like the climbing wall and the banana boat. These experiences challenged me to test my limits. I learned I am braver and stronger than I realized.
Can you talk about some of the biggest obstacles KidWorks’ programming overcame when you were involved?
There were times I wanted to quit but I’m thankful for the staff at KidWorks who kept me focused and on track with my career goals. Now that I’m working, I continue to benefit from KidWorks mentors who are walking alongside me as a young professional.
What does KidWorks mean to you? Looking back, how did KW help to shape your life? How did KW help to influence the person you are today?
Kidworks is all about people – I met so many friends and mentors that have shaped me into the person I am today. I want to give back to the next generation and my family. I recently represented PTS Marketing at the KidWorks career fair and it was rewarding to connect with younger students and help the next generation of KidWorks students.
What are your dreams for KidWorks over the next 10, 20, or 30 years?
I hope to see more students at KidWorks and more centers across Santa Ana.
Anything else you would like to share about KidWorks?
I am excited for the future of KidWorks.