Founder Annette Garcia is the heart and soul behind A Heart of an Angel, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and impacting children through fitness, nature, and character-building experiences. But her journey did not start here, it started with resilience.

From an early age, Annette felt a deep connection to uplifting others, especially children. Raised by a single father as a latchkey kid, Annette learned early on what it meant to be independent, to face adversity, and to push forward despite the odds. She witnessed firsthand the impact of mental health struggles, addiction, incarceration, and domestic violence within her family, experiences that shaped her determination to create something better.

Fitness became her foundation, providing discipline and strength when life felt uncertain, carrying her all the way to national fitness championships. It taught her resilience, and the power of perseverance.

While she built a thriving career in Construction Management and Sales, she knew her purpose was greater. She took a leap of faith, shifting her skills toward something more meaningful- impacting children’s lives through movement, mentorship, and mindset.

Through A Heart of an Angel, Annette has reached thousands of children across Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, proving that fitness is more than just exercise—it is a tool for building confidence, resilience, and self-discovery.

Miss Annette, as the children affectionately call her, is not only a teacher, coach, and mentor, but as someone who sees herself in every child she serves. Her passion for this work is not just a career, it is her legacy.

• CTE Teaching Credential - Health & Science

• Licensed AFAA Group Fitness Coach

• CPR Certified Fitness Instructor

  Youth Mentor

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

  • Police Activity League

  • The City Center Transitional Home for Homeless Families 

  I am beyond stoked to share my passion for fitness and my love for children, two of my favorite things! I am so excited to Get Moving with all of you!