about us
Recreation Advocates, Inc. is a local non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to making sure every young person in Watsonville has the chance to grow, play, and thrive through recreational activities.
Over the years, Recreation Advocates has helped create joyful memories by sponsoring family-friendly events such as:
- Winter Wonderland
- Spaghetti Night Mystery Dinner
- Easter Eggstravaganza & Egg Hunts
- Bitty Sports Program
- “Life-Size” Candy Land Game
- Children’s Fishing Derby at Pinto Lake City Park
- The Original Burrito Bash (one of Watsonville’s very first large community events!)
We’ve also contributed to beloved community traditions like the Pajaro Valley Soap Box Derby and the Spirit of Watsonville 4th of July Parade and Fireworks
Our support comes from special events, volunteer efforts, and the generosity of local businesses and community members. Annual favorites include:
- Breakfast with Santa
- Roaring Camp Volunteer Partnerships
- Community & Business Donations
.
History
Founded in 1982, our all-volunteer, seven-member board has provided more than financial assistance to help youth participate in programs like swimming, music, art, gymnastics, judo, ballet, pre-school, soccer, basketball, football, day camps, and more. We proudly serve children and teens up to age 18.
Mission
Recreation Advocates is dedicated to building a vibrant and inclusive community where every young person can thrive. Recognizing that not all youth have equal access to resources in sports, music, education, and the performing arts, we work to break down barriers and create pathways for participation. Our mission is to ensure that every child—regardless of background or circumstance—can discover their passions, develop their talents, and unleash their full potential. Together, we are shaping a brighter future filled with opportunity for every young person in our community.
Vision
Recreation Advocates envisions a vibrant and connected Watsonville where people of all ages and backgrounds come together through recreation, culture, and community spirit—creating a place where everyone feels welcome, engaged, and proud to belong.
Values
- Community – We believe in fostering a strong sense of belonging by creating spaces and programs that bring people together.
- Inclusion – We are committed to providing equitable access to recreational and cultural opportunities for all residents.
- Collaboration – We build partnerships with individuals, organizations, and local agencies to strengthen community connections and impact.
- Stewardship – We responsibly manage resources and funds to ensure the long-term sustainability of our programs.
- Celebration – We honor Watsonville’s diverse cultural heritage and traditions through events and activities that uplift and unite the community.
Board Members
Annette Baldwin
President
Elizabeth Lopez
Treasurer
Maura Leonor
Board Member
Brenda Armstrong
Secretary
Brenda Armstrong is a dedicated advocate for youth well-being and community health, bringing more than 40 years of leadership experience in government recreation, prevention, and youth development programs. Over her career, she has managed initiatives for the Cities of Watsonville and Scotts Valley, as well as Santa Cruz County, where she developed policy solutions to address substance misuse and empower youth through programs such as Friday Night Live.
Her passion for prevention and community wellness has shaped innovative, nationally recognized projects including Project CURB (Communities United to Reduce Bingeing) and the Seven Challenges Reduction of Suspension Project. Brenda has also been featured in the books Radical Transformational Leadership by Dr. Monica Sharma and Preventing Alcohol-Related Problems: Evidence and Community-Based Initiatives by Giesbrecht and Bosma.
As an international trainer and coach, Brenda specializes in youth development, youth–adult partnerships, community mobilization, and policy development that prioritizes health, equity, and sustainability. She currently serves on the boards of both Recreation Advocates and the RWH Foundation.
Brenda serves with Recreation Advocates to enhance the well-being of youth and help them reach their full potential. She values the organization’s long tradition of providing youth and families with opportunities to connect, have fun, and create lasting memories.
In her own youth, Brenda found joy in ballet, singing, and swimming, and she credits supportive mentors for instilling leadership skills that shaped her personal and professional success.
Violet Lucas
Board Member
Lupe Zepeda
Board Member
Fabian Leonor
Board Member
My name is Fabian Leonor, and I have dedicated the past 13 years to serving as a senior specialist with Community Life Services, focusing on supporting adults on the spectrum. My expertise in supportive employment and job coaching has enabled numerous clients to gain valuable work experience, significantly enhancing their professional skills and personal growth.
Donate today
When you give to Recreation Advocates, you’re not just making a donation — you’re making an investment in the future of our youth and the strength of our community.
Click the button to make a secure online gift through our partner Zeffy. 100% of your donation goes directly to programs supporting Watsonville youth.