In South Lake Tahoe, California, the Escobar Martial Arts Club (EMAC) has been transforming the lives of local at-risk and low-income youth through its martial arts program since 2020. By providing access to martial arts classes at the Escobar Training Grounds, the nonprofit aims to instill discipline, fitness, and a sense of community among participants. Former students, including professional MMA fighter Sonny Anthony, testify to the program’s lasting positive impact.
Building a Foundation for Success
Over the past five years, EMAC has facilitated funding to support this initiative, focusing on youth recommended by school counselors, principals, and therapists. According to Britta Swanson, vice president of EMAC, the program prioritizes children who need guidance and support. “We’re focused on these kids who get recommended by school counselors, principals, and therapists,” she explained. “This program helps them stay centered, focused, and active, with a goal to work towards.” Currently, the organization serves children aged 4 to 17, with plans to target younger age groups.
EMAC collaborates with Vista Rise Collective, formerly known as Live Violence Free, to secure grants that support the program. Although EMAC itself is a relatively new organization, Cory Escobar has been facilitating martial arts training for 18 years. Reflecting on the program’s impact, he remarked, “Through that time, I’ve been seeing such beautiful turnarounds both mentally and physically. It’s like a caterpillar turning into a butterfly.”
Personal Stories of Transformation
Escobar shared the story of Sonny Anthony, who transformed from struggling in school to becoming a role model for others. “He went from pretty much being kicked out of school to getting help and helping others,” he noted. The program integrates participants with their peers in regular classes, fostering a sense of belonging and providing positive role models in both Cory and his wife, Dory Escobar.
Many former students, including Samantha McDonough, highlight the importance of the Escobar program in their lives. McDonough faced challenges focusing in school after a significant life change and was at risk of succumbing to negative influences in her environment. When her counselor, Amy Jackson, offered her an EMAC scholarship for free classes, she was initially apprehensive. “It was nerve-wracking at first. I mean, going to the gym wasn’t something that felt obtainable through money or motivation,” McDonough recalled. Eventually, she found the courage to join the program, which she credits with changing her life for the better.
“Being a woman and knowing how to defend yourself properly gives you a confidence that is unmatched,” she expressed. McDonough continues to train at the gym, praising the supportive community cultivated by EMAC. “There’s a strong culture of kindness and a non-tolerance for disrespect,” she added.
Cory Escobar echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the character development fostered within the program. “My toughest fighters are some of the nicest people to you. We try to emphasize that when you try your best and do hard work, good things happen.”
The program has played a crucial role in helping McDonough avoid the destructive choices that have affected many of her peers. Now studying psychology at Lake Tahoe Community College, she believes programs like EMAC are essential. “Having more options like this program that would give discipline and structure, with the support of adults who care, is really important,” she stated.
McDonough also highlighted the potential broader impact of such initiatives, asserting, “It could be the difference between life or death—it could help prevent overdoses, suicide, and really boost mental health.”
To sustain and expand this impactful program, EMAC requires approximately $2,000 per child for year-round attendance. The organization is actively seeking donations and applying for grants to meet their current fundraising goal of $25,000. Contributions will go towards new equipment, uniforms, and essential resources for the students. Interested individuals can donate through their website at emactahoe.com.
