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Karate Instructor La Quinta Para Named Riverside County's Woman of the Year

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 4:49 GMT by Patch
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

Riverside County, CA - February 24th, 2026 - La Quinta Para, a dedicated karate instructor and community leader, was yesterday recognized as the 4th District Supervisor's Woman of the Year during a formal presentation at the Riverside County Board of Supervisors meeting. The award, presented by Supervisor V. Manuel Perez, celebrates Para's unwavering commitment to empowering women and youth through the discipline and art of karate, and her profound impact on the lives of countless residents.

Para's journey began over two decades ago, fueled by a desire to not only teach self-defense but to cultivate inner strength and resilience within her students. What started as a small, local dojo has blossomed into a thriving hub for personal growth, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds and all age groups. Her approach transcends traditional martial arts training, focusing heavily on building confidence, self-esteem, and positive life values.

"It's more than just punches and kicks," Para explains in a recent interview. "Karate is a vehicle for transformation. It teaches discipline, respect, perseverance, and the importance of setting and achieving goals. For many of my students, especially young women, it's about finding their voice and realizing their inner power."

Supervisor Perez echoed this sentiment during the award ceremony. "La Quinta's dedication to teaching karate has not only helped people develop physical strength and self-defense skills, but also build confidence and resilience," he stated. "She is a true inspiration and a valuable asset to our community."

Beyond Self-Defense: A Holistic Approach

Para's school isn't simply a place to learn how to defend oneself; it's a safe and supportive environment where students can explore their potential, overcome challenges, and build lasting relationships. She incorporates mentorship programs, often pairing senior students with newer learners, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.

One notable program, "Empowerment Through Motion," specifically targets at-risk youth and young women facing socio-economic hardships. This initiative, launched five years ago, provides free or heavily subsidized karate training, combined with workshops on leadership, financial literacy, and healthy relationships. The program has seen remarkable success, with numerous participants going on to pursue higher education, secure employment, and become positive role models within their own communities.

The impact extends beyond individual growth. Para has actively participated in community safety initiatives, leading self-defense workshops for local schools and organizations. She frequently collaborates with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department on awareness campaigns regarding personal safety and crime prevention. Her commitment to civic engagement demonstrates a holistic understanding of community well-being.

A Legacy of Inspiring Others

The Woman of the Year award recognizes outstanding contributions by women in Riverside County. Previous recipients have included leaders in healthcare, education, and public service. Para's inclusion in this distinguished group underscores the significance of her work and its lasting impact on the region.

"I'm incredibly honored and humbled to receive this award," Para shared. "But this isn't about me. It's about all the incredible students who have walked through the doors of my dojo, and all the people who have supported me along the way. I hope to continue inspiring others to reach their full potential, both on and off the mat."

The future looks bright for Para and her karate school. She is currently exploring opportunities to expand her "Empowerment Through Motion" program to reach even more underserved youth, and is actively seeking grants and sponsorships to ensure its sustainability. With her unwavering dedication and passion, La Quinta Para is proving that martial arts can be a powerful force for positive change, building stronger individuals and a stronger community.

Local residents are encouraged to learn more about La Quinta Para's karate school and programs by visiting [hypothetical website address] or contacting the Riverside County Supervisor's office for further information.