The Pina DeLaCruz family has lived in New Braunfels for many years, raising their children and supporting them through school. When Mayra’s older sons—now in 8th and 7th grade—began struggling with homework in elementary school, they heard about Kids Club, and everything began to change. Because the homework was in English and Mayra speaks primarily Spanish, she couldn’t always give them the academic help they needed. Kids Club stepped into that gap with encouragement and consistency—something the family deeply appreciated.
From the start, Kids Club became a steady source of support, joy, and spiritual grounding. One of the first changes Mayra noticed was that her boys began asking to pray together at home, something they learned at Kids Club and brought into their family rhythm. Academically, they grew more confident and capable. Spiritually, they absorbed the biblical truths they were taught, and those lessons began shaping their character, their choices, and the way they treated others.
Kids Club didn’t just strengthen the boys—it strengthened their entire family. Mayra saw her sons become more open in sharing about school and friendships, which deepened communication and trust at home. She also shared one of her most treasured memories:
“When they graduated from [the] program, [Kids Club] gave their blessing and gave them Bibles. It was very, very touching.”
As the boys entered middle school, they carried Kids Club’s influence with them in meaningful ways. Manny shared that he still has friendships from Kids Club—connections that have lasted all the way into 8th grade. Those early relationships have continued to shape his school experience and sense of belonging.
Justin expressed how the program helped him discover a love for being active and athletic, as well as grow in character and confidence. One particular verse has stayed with him over the years.
“The verse that I remember from Kids Club, Isaiah 60:22 — the Lord will make it happen…it made me…never give up.”
When their younger siblings Ashley and Miguel reached elementary school, Mayra didn’t hesitate to enroll them as well. They, too, come home asking to pray like they do at Kids Club, following in the same spiritual footsteps as their older brothers. And once again, the academic support—especially with reading and homework—has been a tremendous blessing for the family.
Looking back, Mayra says Kids Club has strengthened her connection with her children, building trust and giving her tools to reinforce the same character and values they learn at the program. She also shared that her own faith has grown as she watches her children grow in theirs.
As Kids Club celebrates 20 years of ministry, Mayra shared what she would tell other families who are considering the program. She said, “I have confidence and believe in Kids Club because of how it has taught [the kids] spiritually, academically and in friendships.”
For the Pina DeLaCruz family, Kids Club has been a source of encouragement, stability, and hope—one that continues to multiply possibilities in every season of their lives.
