About Us

BYMF's inspiring journey began in 2021 when the Founders visited Morelia, Mexico. During their exploration of the city, they engaged in conversations with a tour guide, shedding light on the pressing needs of the local youth. These heartfelt discussions deeply moved Victoria Hunter, who recognized the potential for BYMF to make a meaningful impact not only in Morelia but also beyond Mexico's borders. Motivated by a strong desire to give back, the Founders established Beloved Youth Moving Forward as a registered 501(c)(3) organization.

After eight months of unwavering dedication, BYMF achieved a significant milestone by organizing its Inaugural Summit in Morelia. This transformative event, raising over $200,000, attracted compassionate and generous donors who wholeheartedly aligned themselves with BYMF's mission. Through their financial contributions, in-kind donations, and advisory assistance, these supporters provided invaluable support.

The impact of the Summit reverberated, spreading awareness of BYMF's mission. Through heartfelt conversations with dear friends, BYMF expanded its reach to extend support to youth in four different countries within just 18 months. As a result, the organization has already positively impacted the lives of over 100 young individuals, empowering them to move forward with hope and opportunity.

Board Members

The primary mission of the Board is straightforward: to always keep the end goal in mind. This goal is to empower youth by equipping them with knowledge, tools, education, and support to overcome their current circumstances and gain the confidence to forge ahead, regardless of their past.

In pursuit of this mission, the Board remains committed to setting aside personal egos and any political considerations, ensuring that their efforts are maximized in providing support to the youth. The Board's unwavering focus lies in fundraising and seeking impactful ways to make a difference in the lives of every individual we reach through our local organizations.

PHIL CHAVEZ

Founder- President

Mr. Chavez is a highly accomplished business and technology executive, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and successful track record. Originally from Denver, Colorado, he currently resides in Carlsbad, California, with his wife Victoria and their four children. Growing up as a second-generation Colorado native, Phil gained early exposure to business by working alongside his father in various ventures. His entrepreneurial drive was evident from a young age when he started his first landscaping business at the age of 12, which later expanded into a moving business employing six workers by the time he turned 16. Throughout his life, he has maintained multiple business efforts, showcasing his passion for entrepreneurship.

While attending college, Phil ventured into the field of telecommunications, where he excelled as a Director of Finance and participated in a prestigious "fast track executive program." He further expanded his career by engaging with startups and playing key executive roles in numerous mergers and acquisitions within the telecom and technology industries. His extensive experience with both startups and established enterprises in the U.S., Europe and South America has contributed to his remarkable professional journey and enables him to provide valuable guidance to BYMF partners as they strive to empower and support young individuals who have faced challenges in their lives.

While Phil's professional achievements are impressive, his desire for community involvement and helping the less fortunate has been a driving force in his life. Alongside his family, he has made significant contributions to various organizations, including the National Council of La Raza and the Greater San Diego Minority Business and Purchasing Council. On a personal level, Phil has always been deeply engaged in his children's lives and actively involved in their sports activities. This commitment led him to serve as Chairman and President of the Carlsbad Defenders Baseball Club, where he coached for over 10 years across multiple baseball clubs in Southern California. Phil's dedication and passion revolve around his family, and he considers it a true blessing that BYMF will have a profound impact on the lives of youth, empowering them to make a positive difference as they navigate through life's journey.

VICTORIA HUNTER

Founder- Vice President

Victoria spent her formative years in Hawaii, embracing the rich cultural diversity and strong values that the island offered. At the age of 22, she made a move to San Diego, California, where she continued to nurture her love for sports and an active lifestyle, particularly enjoying watersports and horseback riding.

Over the course of her 40-year career in the interior design and home building industry, Victoria has found great fulfillment in serving clients and thriving in her profession. She shares a blissful marriage with her husband, Phil, and together they form a blended family of four children, bringing them immeasurable joy.

During a trip to Morelia with her husband, Victoria's passion and desire to make a positive impact became apparent, leading to the formation of BYMF. Giving back and assisting those in need have always been guiding principles in her life, with the belief that leaving the world in a better place is essential. BYMF represents the journey towards that goal, one step, one day, and one person at a time.

Advisory Board

The BYMF Advisory Board consists of individuals from diverse backgrounds and education, with varying knowledge, geographic locations, and experiences across a wide range of industries. These members play a crucial role in offering a unique perspective, providing guidance, advice, and support to the organization. Their collective experience and insight greatly contribute to the informed decision-making process of the Board of Directors.

BYMF recognizes the importance of incorporating input from a diverse range of individuals beyond the Board of Directors. Given the mission of BYMF to support youth in various situations and geographic locations, the insights and perspectives provided by the Advisory Board members are highly valued. Their input serves as a significant factor in determining the current and future success of BYMF.

LINDA EKBLAD

Grant Writer

When I was a child, I witnessed a bus accident and found myself running toward it. My first reaction – “DO SOMETHING!” I was five.

Linda Ekblad lives in Westminster, Colorado with her incredible partner Roy. She enjoys her extended family, friends, salsa dancing, books, the outdoors, and travel… exactly in that order.

Her Life Experience Her Way!

Linda attended Colorado State University for 3 years while working and volunteering as a Sexual Assault Victims Advocate, she also developed and managed an in-school Hispanic Youth on Youth Mentoring Program. She held positions as Program Manager of First Call Information and Referral Line and Volunteer Director of Larimer County which eventually led to her ideal position as United Way of Larimer County’s Northwestern Colorado 211 Program Director. She enthusiastically jumped out of bed in the morning ready to be effective! Her 18 years of experience in social services has taught her that homeless, neglected teenagers often don’t receive the attention or the funding needed to achieve their full potential.

She is now retired volunteering in South Africa. BYMF's logical, heartfelt, and laser-focused efforts has her attention to run towards it and DO SOMETHING!

ROY MAYNES

Mr. Maynes holds the position of President and Partner at Malm Electric, leveraging his extensive expertise in the commercial and residential electrical construction and service industry spanning over 40 years. Under his leadership, Malm Electric has flourished to become one of the largest electrical contractors in Northern Colorado, largely due to his unwavering focus on customer service and contractor satisfaction. Mr. Maynes' exceptional leadership has remained intact for over two decades, a testament to his dedication and skills.

Throughout his career, Mr. Maynes has nurtured strong professional relationships in the Front Range and surrounding markets. His commitment to quality work, dedication to the communities he serves, and active participation in community and charitable events have earned him recognition from numerous organizations.

Despite his professional commitments, Mr. Maynes remains actively engaged in the community where he has lived his entire life. As a native of Westminster, Colorado, he maintains enduring relationships established since his childhood. During his leisure time, he cherishes moments spent with his family and indulges in his passion for the outdoors. You can often find him in the Rocky Mountains, enjoying activities such as fishing, golfing, skiing, and creating cherished memories with his loved ones.

Additionally, Mr. Maynes holds a deep commitment to South Africa, where he has spent time with his family to understand the culture and address the pressing challenges and opportunities faced by youth grappling with economic and cultural issues. Mr. Maynes has not only been actively involved in the community but also served as the initial donor of BYMF, championing their efforts from an advisory position. His exceptional leadership, wise counsel, and invaluable guidance have played an instrumental role in supporting the youth associated with BYMF partners.