Building a brighter future for Guatemala's kids

Guatemalan Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes has been named a 2014 Top 10 CNN Hero in recognition of his efforts to help over 1,000 young Guatemalans survive and maybe escape poverty and violence through turning his family's home into a community center in 2006.

Romero Fuentes' program takes place in the entire front portion of his family's home as well as another building down the block.

At the main center, painted with colorful murals and quotes, children are exposed to a number of creative outlets. They take classes in dance, music, photography, theater and juggling and often put on performances for each other.

"These classes are to show kids that they can pursue their own passions in order to improve their lives," Romero Fuentes said.

Leadership seminars teach the children about social, political and cultural issues. They learn the importance of moral courage, social justice and self-expression. They also explore ways to reduce violence.

"We are raising them to be the future leaders of Guatemala," Romero Fuentes said.

The group's feeding program provides a nutritious meal to more than 100 children each day. For many of them, it is the only meal they will have all day, says Romero Fuentes.

Los Patojos also runs a medical clinic that provides basic health services to more than 1,500 people each year. And the organization is in the process of building its own school, where more than 250 students will attend preschool through sixth grade.

Read more about Los Patojos and go to CNN to vote for Mr. Romero Fuentes.