About Us
At Defend Your Worth, we empower young women and at-risk kids to fight exploitation and violence through scalable workshops and community events that build resilience and safety. Founded by military veterans and advocates like Jorge, a former Marine and martial arts expert, and John, a decorated counter-terrorism veteran, we offer practical self-defense training in a franchise-style model. Kelly and Cori, experienced event organizers, host gatherings that mobilize communities. Alongside our in-person safety workshops, we provide downloadable videos and worksheets to support hyper-local training, driven by our “I can act” mindset.
Jorge Monterrey
Military Veteran & Trainer
Jorge Monterrey., a former U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant, brings unparalleled leadership and expertise to his entrepreneurial ventures in Watertown, WI. During his military service, Jorge trained with elite units like the Royal British Marines, U.S. Army Special Forces, and U.S. Secret Service, earning top honors as Company Honor Graduate and meritorious promotions. A black belt martial arts instructor and expert in small arms, edged weapons, and tactical operations, he specialized in urban, desert, and jungle warfare, earning awards like the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal and Korean Defense Service Medal.
Transitioning to public service, Jorge excelled as a Firefighter and EMT, with certifications in Wildland Fire, Rope Rescue, and Rescue Diving, handling over 6,000 patient contacts. In 2005, he entered the business world, growing a financial firm through the 2008 recession. His entrepreneurial passion led him to found The Urban Survival Academy in 2010 and DEFCOM in 2012, where he teaches practical self-defense and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing mental, physical, and emotional resilience.
J talents extend to the arts, serving as a fight director for local films since 2014, with his first project earning three awards. Today, he owns multiple businesses, consults for entrepreneurs, and remains dedicated to community safety through self-defense education. A black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MCMAP, brown belt in Judo, and edged weapons expert, Jorge balances his roles as a trainer, dad, and community leader.
His mission: empower individuals to stay safe, resilient, and alive while being the best father, coach, and entrepreneur for his community.
Contact: info@defendyourworth.org
John Matter
Counter-Terrorism Veteran & Trainer
John Matter, a father of four and retired U.S. military sniper, served 14 years with elite counter-terrorism units, conducting over 100 missions in Somalia, Yemen, Kosovo, Macedonia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Decorated for valor, he earned three Purple Heart medals across nine combat deployments. Injuries forced his retirement, but his commitment to service endures.
As founder of Blue Water Security Solutions, John develops and trains police and foreign militaries in non-typical warfare, including SWAT and counter-terrorism tactics. He teaches situational awareness, self-defense (including the Girl Scouts of America’s program), and his CRAVE active shooter program for schools and businesses. A retired professional MMA fighter with black belts in American Kickboxing and Kempo, and a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, John brings real-world intensity to his training.
In Watertown, WI, John coaches youth baseball, football, and wrestling, fostering resilience in young athletes. He volunteers and speaks for military nonprofits like the American Legion, Homeless Veterans Initiative, and Sierra Delta Service Dogs, and is a founding member of the 501(c)(3) First Responders Survivors Fund (FRSF). His advocacy supports combat veterans and first responders, helping them thrive post-service.
John’s mission is to empower communities through tactical training and veteran support. His programs blend mental fortitude, physical skill, and practical strategies, ensuring individuals stay safe in high-stress situations. A dedicated coach, trainer, and dad, John aspires to leave a lasting impact on his community and beyond.
Contact: info@defendyourworth.org
Kelly Herrell
Event Organizer & Advocacy Leader
Kelly Herrell, a passionate mother and seasoned event organizer, brings her expertise in advocacy-driven operations to her role with Defend Your Worth, a nonprofit empowering communities against exploitation and abuse. With a background leading field efforts for U.S. Senator Ron Johnson’s campaign and Americans for Prosperity, Kelly transitioned into event planning, orchestrating impactful gatherings that support law enforcement and combat human trafficking.
At Defend Your Worth, she evaluates the viability of major events, including a large-scale fundraising gala inspired by a 1,000-attendee event for conservative leaders and activists. Kelly’s leadership in the nonprofit leverages her networks to mobilize support and inspire action for critical causes. Her faith-driven approach ensures these initiatives resonate deeply with communities.
A devoted mom, Kelly balances her professional commitments with family life, finding joy in community engagement and supporting her children’s endeavors. Her strategic vision and passion for advocacy make her a dynamic leader in planning events that amplify meaningful causes. Kelly’s mission is to empower individuals and communities through purposeful gatherings and nonprofit work, leaving a legacy as a leader, mom, and champion for justice.
Contact: info@defendyourworth.org
Cori Houston
Community Advocate & Event Strategist
Cori Houston., a dedicated mother and business leader, brings three decades of financial expertise and logistical precision to her role with Defend Your Worth, a nonprofit empowering communities against exploitation and abuse. As co-owner of a tax preparation firm and a second-generation franchise owner of Merry Maids, Cori excels in building trust, managing teams, and orchestrating complex operations. She now channels these skills into planning mission-driven events that promote safety, resilience, and community engagement.
Her passion for service shines through her volunteer work, particularly supporting women and families facing hardship. In 2000, Cori founded a charitable program for domestic violence shelters, later expanding nationally via the Helping Hands of Merry Maids initiative. Her leadership earned her recognition as a Milwaukee Business Journal Woman of Influence in 2004.
A proud mother of triplets, Cori also celebrates her 18-year-old son’s achievement as an Eagle Scout. She finds joy in family travel, skiing, and cheering at youth sports events. Her operational acumen and heart for community make her a vital asset in executing high-impact gatherings that inspire and unite. Cori’s mission is to empower communities through strategic event planning and compassionate service, leaving a lasting impact as a leader, mom, and advocate.
Contact: info@defendyourworth.org