Staff: Hector G. Garcia Jr.

Hector G. Garcia Jr. has 6 years of experience in afterschool programming for elementary-aged kids. He feels that serving underserved youth and families is his sole purpose both professionally and personally. Born in Laredo, TX, he moved to Austin in 2005 after serving in the U.S. Army for 4 years. He attended Le Cordon Bleu and earned an associate degree in Culinary Arts followed by earning a bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Wellness at Kaplan University online. Hector feels that the best way for him to utilize the skills learned from his educational experience is by educating those around him on how to cook, showing the basics of nutrition, and doing personal chef work. He previously worked with the Boys and Girls Club of Austin for 6 years on the Eastside (Norman-Sims Elementary) starting as a Youth Development Professional and then as the Club Director. He loves cooking (no surprise there), as well as learning about food, culture, and traditions through cooking, reading, and interviews with people. He also enjoys hanging out with his 6-year-old pit lab, Barley, spending time with family back in Laredo/San Antonio, getting sun any way possible, and relaxing at home. He can’t wait to dedicate his time with Friends of the Children and serve our community!