About Us
Our Vision
By building on past success and establishing strategic priorities, Karma Connects has the foundation to become stronger and more efficient than ever. We want to make a difference, which requires a real-world approach and a dedication to action.
It’s Amazing What We Can Do When We Come Together!
“For many years I wanted to be a part of something meaningful and impactful. Today, it is a reality. I would like to offer those in need an opportunity for true progress. Every day I look forward to the commitment and support that makes it all possible!”
–Raul Martinez, Head of Connections
Raul Martinez
President
As founder of Karma Connects, it has always been my mission to present a platform that assists those that can and have the desire to help others. My goal is not only for local support, but it is also to introduce and build this vision in many cities across the United States. I wanted to start in Arizona and introduce several pilot programs that work and support by two initiatives– simplicity and affordability. We will quickly branch out to others states. California and Texas will follow, and we will continue until we have nowhere else to go.It is important to me to make this about the message, not just the funding. Karma Connects is important to me as is surrounding myself with a group that I can trust to successfully build this nonprofit. It is also important to me that we lead by example and through volunteering, we will show that by making the time in our very busy schedules, we can and will accomplish BIG goals. Reaching 100,000 people is no joke! However, we will– one connection at a time. We have also made it so that all donations will always meet the benefit with 97% of the contribution going to the cause, 3% going to PayPal.
Realistically, we know this will work. This will never be about Karma Connects– it will always be about what Karma Connects can do to help others. Our initial pilot programs include education and local community service. Education is so important to us at Karma Connects. Bringing awareness about the local needs in the community are also a priority. For example, making a difference for women’s centers, families in need of help, as well as pet rescue groups. These are needs we simply cannot ignore!
As the person I have become, I have to say, this is what I am meant to do and what I am meant to be: a part of a wonderful organization doing great things. I would like some company, and hope that, together, we can all be a part of something meaningful.
Andres Martinez
President, Teen Division
My name is Andres Martinez. As a teenager, naturally I have a busy schedule split up between school, sports, extracurricular activities, social life, and work. With that, I was able to build a strong work ethic that I can apply to every task put in front of me. For me hard work, and effort has been and will always be a priority, and along with those traits comes a passion for helping individuals that need the extra push. Being younger, I feel it is important to connect with people and do your part in giving back to your community, as it becomes what you make of it. Bettering my community and being able to give back to improve the lives of the less fortunate has always been established within my family. I am both proud and excited to continue helping those in need and building lasting relationships.
Ricardo Valle
Vice President
My Name is Ricardo Valle. Helping others is a quality that my parents instilled in me at a young age. Even when we didn’t have much, my parents gave what they could. Because of the example my parents set for me I aspire to help others when I can, however I can.
In a society where instant gratification is becoming the norm, athletics teaches young people that through hard work and dedication, goals and success can be achieved even when they initially seemed unattainable. I also believe that there is no better tool in society than athletics to build character. Sports teach integrity and teamwork, but they also teach how to learn from constructive criticism and losses which leads to learning resiliency. Humility, appreciation, sportsmanship, and fortitude are other characteristics that can be taught and learned through athletics. Finally, happiness is an incredible benefit that results from participation in athletics. The sense of accomplishment earned through sports is difficult to replicate elsewhere in life. These healthy and happy children can take these attributes and become healthy, happy, and not to mention employable adults.
For all of these reasons and many others I have a passion for athletics and the passion to help anybody who needs that extra hand to participate, grow, and achieve in sports. Please connect with me so that we can enrich the lives of others and society one athlete at a time.
Danielle Zanon
Vice President, Teen Division
My name is Danielle Zanon. Throughout my life, I’ve played many different roles, including that of a student, a sister, a partner, and a friend. However, no matter my relationship and who with, I’ve been guided by key morals and ideals- including generosity, open mindedness, and effort. I strive to consistently project those three things into all of my work and interactions. As a part of the youth in our community, I am aware of the influence and potential that we have in changing it for the better. The prospect of being able to connect and give back to a community that has given me so much is both an honor and a privilege.
Mary Martinez
Head of Operations
My name is Mary Martinez. I have met many people over the years that have needed help. Sometimes it was something small like help with a utility bill or something big like rent or car repairs. Unfortunately, they weren’t always able to get help they needed and it affected their life and even the roof over their head. I love Karma Connects because it gives people a place to go, a resource that allows them to connect with other people for help. What a great concept…people helping people! I am so proud to be a part of Karma Connects and I look forward to helping people for many years to come!
Tristan Smith
Vice President, Teen Division
My name is Tristan Smith. Growing up in a military family, I have been exposed to many different aspects of life that not many are fortunate enough to experience. Protecting our country from all enemies, foreign and domestic, as well as the passion to make peace on Earth, is what my Grandfather, my Father, and both of my Brothers have pledged to do. I plan to commission as an officer in the United States Air Force after high school, but until then I want to continue such service through different programs and activities hosted by Karma Connects, giving back to the community that I grew up in. I’m always excited and eager to build new bonds and make memories that last a lifetime, Karma Connects gives me that opportunity.
Ana Laura Valle
Vice President
My name is Ana Laura Valle. I was raised in a single parent household, and I learned at a young age that hard work pays off. My mom taught me how to be a hard worker and never stop. This is why I live life by taking every opportunity that comes my way. I graduated from Cal State San Bernardino with a bachelor’s in food science and nutrition. I joined Karma Connects because I see what it can do for someone in need of a little help. I want to help make that happen and watch them grow. In my spare time, I enjoy baking and decorating cakes. There is always room for cake!