At its inception, the purpose of the WBA KO Drugs campaign was to combat the scourge of illegal drug use by young people throughout the world. That mission continues to expand and includes promoting proper values in our young people as it relates to their education, their families, and their communities.
Earlier today Gilberto Jesus Mendoza, president of the WBA, and Salvadoran champion Carlos “El Famoso” Hernandez visited SOS Children’s Village in El Salvador, one of five homes in the country that provides family support to 384 teenagers. They came to share with the young residents of this community a positive message as to how they can improve their lives.
“This is the first time I have come to your beautiful country,” said Mendoza to the dozens of young boys and girls who came to meet him and the former champion, “and I am blessed to share with you some of the ways you can build your self-esteem. By avoiding drugs you can avoid falling into a trap from which it is very hard to escape. It may seem difficult at times, but it can be done. Others have succeeded. You can succeed as well.”
For his part, “El Famoso” Hernandez shared his experience both in and out of the ring with the teenagers in attendance.
“We have to be strong and say no to drugs,” he told them. “True strength lies in doing the right thing. There were many times when I was a young, and later when I was a champion, when I had to say no to drugs and no to temptation. But I was always thinking of my country. I was always thinking of the young people who looked up to me. It is an honor that the WBA has come to our country to fight for the health and well-being of our young people, including and maybe especially for those of you who are here today.”
Claudia Sagastume, Director of Fundraising and Communications for SOS El Salvador, supports Sr. Mendoza’s values and welcomed him to El Salvador and SOS Children’s Village.
“We welcome this visit,” she said. “The teenagers are here because of family problems. They are familiar with life’s difficulties. I agree with Sr. Mendoza and his positive message. It is simple, but it is true. “You are the champion of your own life. If you say no to drugs, you can live life to the fullest.”
This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.
