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Daniel Estrada Boxes To Help At-Risk Kids

9 Family Connection has dedicated the next year to "The Power Of One", the individuals in Central Florida who are finding ways to better the lives of our troubled youth. Daniel Estrada was hooked on drugs at age 11 and now he's turned his life around by helping other at-risk kids change their own lives for the better.

Estrada came from a broken home was doing drugs and on the streets at age 11.

"I came from a very dysfunctional background," he said.

His brother got in with the wrong crowd and is doing 105 years to life for murder. He wants to make sure other kids from broken homes don't end up like his brother.

"Boxing helps me get out frustration and anger in a positive way," Estrada said.

And the kid's testimonials say boxing has changed their lives forever.

"Since I've been in this program I got better grades. Been doing good," saod Joseph Lozano.

On top of that, Lozano lost 50-pounds in six-months because he said now he knows how to focus.

Brandon Penson said he doesn't really ever see his dad, but Mr. Daniel, as he is called, is like a father to him. Mr. Daniel gives him hope.

"That's why I love Mr. Daniel," Penson said. "That's my dad."

And Malik Washington failed part of the FCAT, but after being in the program he was able to pass with no problem.

"I end up motivating myself by saying 'I need to keep up my grades to go to boxing,'" Washington said.

One man. One mission. The power of one. Giving these kids power they never knew they had. There is a boxing tournament this weekend where all the profits go to the non-profit group Angels Caring Eyes.

I Am The One On WFTV

Grant Winners Making A Difference
See some of the dramatic ways Central Floridians are using grants they received from the I Am The One program to make a real difference in our community.
Teens Help Neighbors Who Struggle To Make Ends Meet
Local Schools Get $50,000 From I Am The One
WFTV 9 Family Connection Partners Work To Help Community
The "I Am The One" Challenge Continues

Jeff Jensen is a recipient of a 9 Family Connection and Partners I AM THE ONE grant. Jeff took his money and is using it to teach young children about computer programming. At the same time he is teaching a group of high school students an even bigger lesson.
VIDEO: I AM THE ONE Grant Winner
IMAGES: Teaching Students To Teach Students

9 Family Connection Events

Join WFTV-9 Family Connection for the Hoopin' for Health Charity Basketball Game on Saturday, August 7th at 6pm at Olympia High School. This event features moms of pro basketball and pro football players in a friendly competition of basketball to raise money and awareness for the United Negro College Fund. Full Story ››


Join WFTV- 9 Family Connection and WRDQ 27 Community Connection for the House of Hope's New York Style Fashion Show on August 21st. Full Story ››


Join Light The Night and take steps to cure cancer! Full Story ››


Mark your calendars for United Way Days of Caring - Central Florida's largest community-wide volunteer event, which benefits local nonprofit organizations and the clients they serve on September 24th. Full Story ››


WFTV-9 Family Connection and Family Services of Metro are dedicated to finding safe permanent homes for hundreds of children in Central Florida. Join us for the Heart Gallery which features children waiting for adoption. Full Story ››


Join WFTV- 9 Family Connection for the American Heart Association's Start! Heart Walk on Saturday, October 2nd at Loch Haven Park. Fun for the whole family. Full Story ››