The Escobar Martial Arts Club (EMAC) has been transforming the lives of at-risk and low-income youth in South Lake Tahoe since its establishment in 2020. The nonprofit organization offers martial arts classes at Escobar Training Grounds, instilling fitness, discipline, and a sense of community among participants. The program has produced success stories, including MMA fighter Sonny Anthony and current Lake Tahoe Community College student Samantha McDonough, highlighting the positive impact martial arts training can have on young lives.
For the past five years, EMAC has secured funding to support its targeted initiatives. The organization collaborates with local leaders to identify which children would benefit most from the program. Vice President Britta Swanson noted, “We’re focused on these kids who get recommended by school counsellors, principals, and therapists. This program helps them stay centered, focused, and active, with a goal to work towards.”
Swanson mentioned the aim to concentrate efforts on younger participants, particularly those in middle school. “We’re attempting to focus on the middle school timeframe, trying to start younger, because it’ll give them that chance to start and grow relationships between all our partners,” she said. The organization works closely with Vista Rise Collective, formerly known as Live Violence Free, to secure grants for their initiatives.
Cory Escobar, who has been facilitating these programs for nearly two decades, expressed his commitment to helping youth through martial arts. 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.” Escobar shared that many students, including Anthony, experienced significant transformations, moving from difficult circumstances to more hopeful futures.
The program integrates participants with their peers in regular classes, fostering a sense of comfort and belonging. Escobar and his wife, Dory Escobar, serve as positive role models, offering support to students who face challenges at home. Cory reflected on his own tough upbringing, stating, “I remember it being hard as a teenager, growing up with different challenges. Helping kids in those tough places through training… I mean, this is my passion.”
McDonough, a former student, echoed the importance of the program in providing stability and structure. “The program provided normalcy and an escape to some extent,” she noted. After facing difficulties in her personal life, McDonough was offered an EMAC scholarship by her counsellor, Amy Jackson, allowing her to participate in classes at Escobar Training Grounds.
Initially apprehensive about attending, McDonough found that martial arts training significantly changed her life. “It was amazing to be there. Being a woman and knowing how to defend yourself properly gives you a confidence that is unmatched. You’re more than what you used to be.” She continues to train at the facility, praising the community atmosphere that promotes kindness and respect.
Escobar emphasized the values instilled in participants: “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. And the self-esteem and confidence you get from this program isn’t just given, it’s earned.”
McDonough credits the program with steering her away from negative influences that have affected many of her friends. Now studying psychology at Lake Tahoe Community College, she recognizes the program’s impact on her life choices. “Having more options like this program that would give discipline and structure, with the support of adults who care, is really important.”
She further stressed the necessity of funding for such programs, stating, “It could be the difference between life or death—it could help prevent overdoses, suicide and really boost mental health.”
To sustain its operations, EMAC requires approximately $2,000 per child annually. The organization is actively seeking donations and applying for grants, with a current funding goal of $25,000. Interested individuals can contribute via their website at emactahoe.com.
Through these efforts, Escobar Training Grounds continues to build a foundation for success, empowering youth and fostering a supportive community within South Lake Tahoe.
