Founder and Executive Director Aj Vasquez understands first-hand what instability, poverty, and limited opportunities can do to a child. Raised by a single father in a low-income, underserved area of Greeley, Aj found himself involved in gangs at a young age. After coming home from being incarcerated, he was determined to prove he was more than a product of his environment. Aj started a small boxing club to pass on the values of discipline and perseverance. This boxing club quickly grew, and he saw an opportunity to expand his mission.

Through mentorship programs, tutoring, athletics, recovery programs, and fellowship groups, The Mexica Center provides resources and opportunities that are essential for individuals to reach their full potential. Once labeled as a ‘troubled youth’, Aj has transformed himself and redefined his story as one of leadership, service, and impact. Now a successful businessman and philanthropist, Aj holds an engineering degree, owns two successful businesses, and has a large family with six kids and his wife, Annie. Aj’s life stands as a powerful reflection of his core belief: a person’s past does not define their future.