Educating Childrens' Future
Community Center
Small group sessions
Homework help
One-on-one sessions
Reading practice
Computer time
STAAR readiness
Educational games
Independent learning
And more!
"Tutoring With Results!"
(361) 452-8340
OUR STORY
The E.C.F. Center began as a food pantry in 2007. As volunteers recognized the academic struggles of local children, the After-School Program was established in 2011 to provide free, individualized academic support. In 2018, E.C.F. relocated to Zavala Elementary School, which became our Home Campus.
STUDENTS HELPING STUDENTS
Our tutors are education majors completing required fieldwork hours while working directly with students. Through our partnership with Del Mar College, we provide free, high-quality tutoring while giving future educators valuable hands-on experience.
We are grateful for this partnership and want to continue providing this opportunity. Regular attendance and full participation help us maintain the collaboration and continue serving students who need academic support.
STAFF
Assistant Program Director
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Board Member, President
Pastor Joseph Munoz
Joseph Munoz graduated from Christ for the Nations Bible Institute with a degree in Bible Studies and later attended Vision Christian University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. He spent 30 years operating his own construction business and served as a youth pastor for eight years and senior pastor for 21 years. Pastor Joseph has been a longtime supporter of E.C.F., with his church serving as the program’s first headquarters. He has served on E.C.F.’s board since its founding and became Board President in 2021. He also founded BASE Missions in Oaxaca, Mexico, which focuses on serving elementary-aged children.
Board Member, Vice President
Dr. Rick Barrera, T.h.D.
Pastor Rick Barrera has served on E.C.F.’s Board since 2015 and as Vice-President since 2018. An ordained minister, he has served as a pastor for over 20 years and currently serves as Director of Chaplain Services for Corpus Christi Hospice and Associate Pastor at Believe Church in Corpus Christi. Pastor Rick has dedicated much of his career to serving children and families, including through various community boards and organizations. He has also served on the City of Corpus Christi’s Youth Development Board and Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. He and his wife, Debbie, have been married for 26 years and have three children.
Board Member, Advisory Board
Judge Joe Benavides
The Honorable Judge Joe Benavides has served as an E.C.F. Community Center Advisory Board Member for many years. He graduated from Park University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Human Resources and continues to complete judicial education through Texas State University. Judge Benavides has served as a Justice of the Peace in Nueces County for over nine years and has served on the boards of organizations including the American Heart Association and Nueces County Community Action Agency. He is dedicated to supporting local schools and youth programs, including CCISD, TMISD, and CISD, and has received numerous awards recognizing his commitment to education and the community.
Board Member, Advisory Baord
Allison Barrera
My name is Allison Escobar-Ita and I am a proud board member of E.C.F's After School Tutoring Program. I graduated from Del Mar College with an Associate of Arts in Teaching with an Emphasis in Early Childhood Education and continued my education at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and earned a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with an Emphasis in Early Childhood Education. I have worked for the Corpus Christi Independent School District for 12 years. I am currently a Reading Interventionist at Rose Shaw Elementary.
Board Member, Advisory Board
Edna Niera
I am a retired elementary school principal. I worked most years as a teacher. I am looking forward to serving on this board and doing what I can for the benefit of students!