California Youth Karate Club, Inc.

California Youth Karate Club, Inc. Kicks Off the New Year with Act of Kindness from Celebrity Partner Aaron Cohen

California Youth Karate Club, Inc. proudly kicks off the new year alongside our celebrity partner and longtime supporter, Aaron Cohen, whose generosity is already making a meaningful impact. Cohen recently donated thousands of dollars’ worth of martial arts training equipment, now actively in use within our after-school programs across multiple schools in the Hawthorne School District—directly benefiting the youth we serve.

Cohen began his Hollywood career as a technical advisor on major motion pictures, including Steven Soderbergh’s Haywire, and as a tactical trainer for A-list actors such as Keanu Reeves for the globally successful John Wick franchise. He later transitioned into acting, appearing in numerous film and television projects, including 211 opposite Nicolas Cage, Rambo 5: Last Blood with Sylvester Stallone, a recurring role on Netflix’s Luis Miguel, and a supporting role opposite Antonio Banderas in the 2022 crime thriller The Enforcer.

Beyond entertainment, Aaron Cohen is an Israeli-trained career special operations and intelligence veteran, with over two decades of counterterrorism experience. He began his service in Israel’s elite undercover mista’aravim (“Arabist”) units, highly specialized counterterrorism teams trained to assimilate into hostile environments while conducting high-risk arrests, intelligence operations, and counterterror missions using disguise and surprise as primary tactics.

Cohen is also the host of The Aaron Cohen Show, a weekly podcast delivering in-depth discussions on Israeli special operations, counterterrorism, global security, and pro-law-enforcement topics, featuring expert interviews and firsthand insights. He is among the most recognized on-camera law enforcement and counterterrorism analysts, with hundreds of appearances across major news networks, including CNN and Fox News Channel, and was a recurring guest with Larry King for over a decade.

Currently, Cohen serves as a Lieutenant (Reserve) with a U.S. Sheriff’s Department, where he has volunteered for over 15 years. He facilitates advanced tactical training for patrol officers, school resource officers, and SWAT teams, and remains an active SWAT team member, assisting in high-risk operations. Internationally, he has trained hundreds of police agencies and military units in Israeli counterterrorism methodologies.

Cohen is also the author of the bestselling memoir Brotherhood of Warriors: Behind Enemy Lines with a Commando in One of the World’s Most Elite Counter-Terrorist Units, published by HarperCollins and translated into eight languages.

A dedicated martial artist, Aaron Cohen is a Kenpo Karate Black Belt and a valued member of our extended Kenpo family. He was introduced to us by fellow Kenpo Black Belt Master Dr. Joey Cadena of Texas, strengthening a bond rooted in discipline, service, and community.

California Youth Karate Club, Inc. is honored to partner with Aaron Cohen—whose commitment to youth development, public service, and martial arts excellence continues to inspire and uplift the next generation.

CYKC Presents “Kick For A Cause”

On Saturday, December 20th, I have the honor of celebrating the advancement of students who have earned their next rank in Kenpo Karate. It gives me tremendous pride and joy to witness these students grow—not only in there martial arts skill, but in discipline, confidence, and character.

Few people understand how meaningful this is to me. My journey in martial arts began at the age of 9, after being picked on and beaten up for no reason. It was my dear father—whom I love ❤️ deeply for his warrior spirit and life lessons—who introduced me to martial arts and to my first masters at Karate Connection in the City of Hawthorne. From there, the rest is history.

These were the days when rank was earned through hard work, commitment, and determination—not by paying money for a black belt without skill. My Karate Master, “Crazy George” Quinones, a proud U.S. Army Veteran, held us to the highest standards. If you weren’t paying attention—if you were looking out the window—you felt the discipline immediately.

Through discipline, goal setting, and even cleaning the studio, I earned my karate lessons.

Another great influence in my life was Grandmaster Vic LeRoux, also a U.S. Army Veteran, alumnus of Hawthorne High School, and student of 1st Generation Senior Grandmaster Ed Parker. He was like a second father to me. I often catch myself speaking just like him—and because of everything these men gave me, I fear no one.

Over the years, I have taught boys and girls ages 4–17, from every race and walk of life. I’ve worked with over 1,000 children, and what makes my program special is simple:

If you’re in a wheelchair, or have ADHD, Autism, or any challenge you believe might hold you back—you are always welcome. You don’t sit on the bench here like in football 🏈, soccer, or baseball ⚾️.
You are always on our team.

Parents who cannot afford karate receive FREE lessons for their children—something I can proudly say with many witnesses who will vouch for this.

This year marks my 31st year running the California Youth Karate Club, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. What started in my garage has grown to 25 sites, partnering with:
• School districts
• YMCA
• Boys & Girls Clubs
• VFW
• American Legion
• Sheriff’s Youth Activities League

Each year, I host a special event bringing together martial artists, families, celebrities, and community partners—and this year, I invite YOU to join us.

🥋 KICK FOR A CAUSE 🥋

📅 Saturday, December 20th
⏰ 1:00 – 4:00 PM
📍 Masonic Lodge
116 Ruby St
Redondo Beach, CA 90277

Come celebrate martial arts, youth empowerment, discipline, and community.
We would be honored to have you with us.

Our Silent auction will feature VIP LA Laker Tickets 🎫. Your donation contributes to a cause which helps kids in more ways than you can imagine.

“Kenpo en Perú” 🇵🇪Master Hugo M. Rojas II

As a lifelong martial artist, school board member, and proud Peruvian-American—born in Lima and raised in California—I’ve always felt a deep calling to give back, especially to communities where children can benefit from the life-changing values of martial arts.

In 1994, I founded the California Youth Karate Club, Inc. with one mission in mind: to make martial arts accessible to all children, regardless of background or ability.

On a recent trip to Surco, Peru, I had the incredible honor of teaching Kenpo Karate to 60 dedicated students at a school called Kenpo Perú, led by the passionate and talented Sensei Kemberly Guevara.

Karate is far more than self-defense—it’s a tool for building confidence, discipline, and inclusion. Unlike many traditional sports, martial arts create space for every child—including those with special needs. There’s no bench in karate. Every child participates. Every child grows. Every child belongs.

I’m deeply grateful for this unforgettable experience and look forward to returning to Peru soon—for the people, the purpose, and the power of Kenpo.

Today, California Youth Karate Club, Inc. (facebook.com/cykc94) and its certified Black Belt Instructors are making a lasting impact—teaching hundreds of children across several school districts in Los Angeles County.

We invite you to join our mission: become a sponsor, partner, or bring CYKC to your school or organization.
For more information, please call (310) 912-4207 or email: [email protected]
www.instagram.com/rojaskenpo1


“Kenpo en Perú” 🇵🇪Maestro Hugo M. Rojas II

Como artista marcial de toda la vida, miembro de la junta escolar y orgulloso peruano-estadounidense—nacido en Lima y criado en California—siempre he sentido un profundo llamado a retribuir, especialmente en comunidades donde los niños pueden beneficiarse de la experiencia transformadora de las artes marciales.

En 1994, fundé California Youth Karate Club, Inc. con una sola misión: hacer que las artes marciales sean accesibles para todos los niños, sin importar su origen o habilidad.

En un reciente viaje a Surco, Perú, tuve el privilegio de enseñar Kenpo Karate a 60 estudiantes increíbles en una escuela llamada Kenpo Perú, dirigida por la talentosa y dedicada Sensei Kemberly Guevara.

El karate es mucho más que defensa personal—es una herramienta que fomenta la confianza, la disciplina y la inclusión. A diferencia de muchos deportes tradicionales, las artes marciales ofrecen un espacio para todos los niños, incluidos aquellos con necesidades especiales. En el karate, no hay banca. Todos los niños participan. Todos crecen. Todos pertenecen.

Estoy profundamente agradecido por esta experiencia inolvidable y espero volver pronto al Perú—por su gente, su propósito y el poder del Kenpo.

Hoy en día, California Youth Karate Club, Inc. (facebook.com/cykc94) y sus instructores certificados de Cinturón Negro están dejando una huella positiva, enseñando a cientos de niños en varios distritos escolares del Condado de Los Ángeles.

Te invitamos a unirte a nuestra misión: conviértete en patrocinador, socio o incorpora a CYKC en tu escuela o institución.
Para más información, por favor llama al (310) 912-4207 o escribe a: [email protected]
www.instagram.com/rojaskenpo1

On Friday October 4th, 2024 Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced Jim McDonell as the new Chief of the LAPD. He formerly served as the LA County Sheriff.

He’s also a distinguished “California Dragon Award” recipient seen here as presented by World Champion & Founder of California Youth Karate Club, Inc. Hugo M. Rojas II. Picture taken at STARS CENTER, Whittier, CA. during the California Youth Karate Nationals Championships sponsored in part by United Peace Officers Against Crime.
CYKC, Inc. was founded as a 501(C)3 in 1994 when at that time our Board of Directors Chairman was Former Chief of Los Angeles Police Department Thomas Reddin.

I attended career day at Hawthorne Middle School which was once Hawthorne Intermediate School when I use to attend it. I left the students with an important message as it relates to safety awareness, success and empowerment. As the founder of California Youth Karate Club, Inc. and former Hawthorne School Board Member (2001-2009) we’re pleased to be able to provide an after school martial arts program that provides many benefits to students. Special thanks to Superintendent Dr. Brian Markarian, Asst. Sup. Mara Pagñano, Hawthorne School Board, All Program, Black Belt Instructors Christian Moraga, Ray Robles & Shawna Walker.

California Youth Karate Club ,Inc. Invites you to our “Youth Holiday Benefit” in celebration of “CYKC” 29th Year Anniversary and Belt Promotion!

@ Sol Restaurant , Sonesta Hotel
Saturday December 9th, 2023, 4-7p.m.
300 N. Harbor Dr. Redondo Beach , CA. 90277

Fundraiser* Awards* Youth Karate Demonstration* Yellow Belt Ceremony* Entertainment* Raffle* Beach Sunset*
Bar* Restaurant * Redondo Beach *

Support CYKC via Zelle, credit card , Venmo: , PayPal:
[email protected] we’re a 501 (C)3 Corporation for charitable purposes.
F.E.I.N. #95-4459013 / (310)912-4207 California Youth Karate Club, Inc.

PS I Love You Foundation & FABLETICS’
22nd Annual Day at the Beach Was a huge success on the sand of Manhattan Beach between 6th & 8th street where 300 underserved children ages 5-12 from various after-school programs, shelters, and foster care, where united one-on-one with caring adult volunteers for a day of healthy interaction, inclusion, trust building, fun and friendship! They joined relay races, mini golf, boogie boarding, face painting, cupcake making, karate and more.

Volunteers & Mentors included California Youth Karate Club, Inc., Evolution Academy, Activities run by NCL, Amigos Unidos, Sandpipers, Girl Scouts, Hermanos, MCHS Baseball Team, Boardriders, RAMS Mascot & Cheerleaders , LMU/UCLA.

PS I Love You Foundation, a 501(c)3 established in 1998 and reaching 1,000 youth annually, is dedicated to the development and implementation of effective Social Emotional Learning and Resilience Programs to benefit the overall health and well-being of youth K-12 in our most vulnerable communities.
Photo credit : Kim D. West Photography
https://psiloveyoufoundation.org/ #:~:text=Founded%20in%201998%2C%20the%20PS,others%20and%20the%20surrounding%20world.

*KENPO KARATE* BOYS & GIRLS AGES 4-17*REDONDO BEACH* SAFETY AWARENESS*BELT RANKING*MASTER ROJAS* CLASSES BEGIN MARCH 1st*2023*MASONIC LODGE* SELF DISCIPLINE*WHITE BELT* BLACK BELT*WORLD CHAMPION* CYKC*FITNESS* *FOCUS* *GOAL SETTING*BALANCE*COORDINATION*SELF-CONFIDENCE* SELF-ESTEEM * CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT* SALUTE /BOWING* MEDITATE*STRETCH*STANCES*BLOCKS* KICKS*FOOT MANEUVERS*KATA* TECHNIQUES*PROMOTION*COMPETE*TOURNAMENT*PHYSICALY & MENTALLY IN SHAPE*EFFECTIVE MARTIAL ART*🥋🇺🇸
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