DEFCON 1 KIDS
Led by Donna Gonzalez, President
DEFCON 1 KIDS is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates on a not-for-profit basis and solely for the public benefit. We are dedicated to empowering young minds through innovative educational programs that build character, confidence, and critical life skills.
Get Involved
Our Location
Where We're Located
DEFCON 1 KIDS is proudly based in Pembroke Pines, Florida, serving families throughout South Florida and beyond. Our central location allows us to reach diverse communities and provide accessible programming for children from all backgrounds.
Physical Address:
PEMBROKE PNES, Florida, 33025-1124
Serving Our Community
From our Florida headquarters, we coordinate programs, workshops, and community outreach initiatives. Our location enables us to collaborate with local schools, community centers, and partner organizations to maximize our impact on youth development in the region.
Our Mission & Vision
Our Mission
Building resilience, fostering leadership.
DEFCON 1 KIDS is a nonprofit organization that focuses on teaching children resilience, leadership, and survival skills through fun, interactive, and educational programs. We believe every child deserves the tools to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Our Vision
To create a generation of confident, capable, and compassionate leaders who can face any challenge with resilience and determination. We envision communities where children are equipped with practical life skills and the mental fortitude to overcome obstacles.
What We Do
DEFCON 1 KIDS transforms traditional learning into exciting adventures that prepare children for real-world challenges. Our comprehensive approach combines practical survival skills with character development, creating well-rounded individuals ready to lead and inspire others.
Survival Skills Training
Teaching essential outdoor survival techniques, basic first aid, navigation skills, and emergency preparedness through hands-on activities that build confidence and practical knowledge children can use throughout their lives.
Leadership Development
Fostering natural leadership abilities through collaborative projects, communication workshops, and decision-making scenarios that help children discover their unique strengths and potential.
Resilience Building
Developing mental toughness and emotional intelligence through carefully designed challenges that teach children how to bounce back from setbacks and maintain a positive mindset.
Our Programs
01
Weekend Workshops
Interactive Saturday sessions covering essential life skills like basic first aid, outdoor safety, and team problem-solving. Each workshop builds upon previous learning while introducing new challenges.
02
Summer Leadership Camps
Week-long intensive programs that immerse children in leadership scenarios, outdoor adventures, and collaborative projects designed to build confidence and practical skills.
03
School Partnerships
After-school programs and curriculum supplements that bring our unique approach to resilience and leadership training directly into educational settings.
04
Family Engagement
Parent-child workshops that strengthen family bonds while teaching valuable skills that families can practice together at home and in everyday situations.
Our Impact
500+
Children Served
Young lives touched through our comprehensive programming since our founding
25
Partner Schools
Educational institutions collaborating with us to enhance student development
95%
Satisfaction Rate
Of parents reporting improved confidence and resilience in their children
50+
Volunteers
Dedicated community members supporting our mission
Our programs have demonstrated measurable improvements in children's self-confidence, problem-solving abilities, and leadership potential. Families consistently report that children who participate in DEFCON 1 KIDS programs show increased resilience when facing challenges and greater willingness to take on leadership roles in school and community settings.
Meet Our Leadership
Donna Gonzalez
President & Founder
Donna brings over 15 years of experience in youth development and nonprofit management to DEFCON 1 KIDS. Her passion for empowering children stems from her background in education and emergency preparedness training.
With a Master's degree in Child Development and certifications in wilderness survival and first aid instruction, Donna has dedicated her career to creating innovative programs that prepare children for life's challenges while fostering their natural leadership abilities.
Our Commitment
Under Donna's leadership, DEFCON 1 KIDS has grown from a small community initiative to a recognized nonprofit organization serving families throughout South Florida. Her vision continues to drive our expansion and program development.
Contact Donna:
dgonzalez@defcon1kids.help
Get Involved
Volunteer Opportunities
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help shape the next generation of leaders. We offer flexible opportunities for individuals with various skills and availability levels.
  • Program assistants and mentors
  • Event planning and coordination
  • Administrative support
  • Specialized skill instructors
Donation Support
Your financial support enables us to provide scholarships, purchase equipment, and expand our reach to serve more children in our community. Every contribution makes a direct impact on a child's development.
As a 501(c)(3) organization, all donations are tax-deductible and go directly toward program operations and development.
Partnership Opportunities
Schools, community organizations, and businesses can partner with us to bring our programs to their constituencies. We offer customized programming and collaborative initiatives.
Success Stories
"My daughter came home from the weekend workshop with such excitement and confidence. She's been practicing the skills she learned and even taught her little brother some basic safety techniques. The leadership development really shows in how she approaches challenges now."
- Maria S., Parent
"The partnership with DEFCON 1 KIDS has transformed our after-school program. Students are more engaged, show better teamwork skills, and demonstrate remarkable growth in their ability to handle difficult situations with maturity."
- James T., Elementary School Principal
These testimonials reflect the consistent feedback we receive from families and partners. Children who participate in our programs develop not just practical skills, but the confidence and mindset needed to become tomorrow's leaders and positive community contributors.
Join Our Mission
DEFCON 1 KIDS is more than just a nonprofit organization – we're a community of families, educators, and volunteers committed to raising resilient, capable, and confident children. Every child deserves the opportunity to develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in our complex world.
Contact Us Today
Ready to get involved or learn more about our programs? Reach out to President Donna Gonzalez at dgonzalez@defcon1kids.help
Make a Difference
Whether through volunteering, donations, or partnerships, your support helps us continue building resilience and fostering leadership in children throughout our community.