Lopez has strong ties to Boys & Girls Club

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Actor and television host Mario Lopez says growing up with the Boys & Girls Club and a strong sense of family helped prepare him for fatherhood.

Lopez is a fitness ambassador for the children's after-school program and awarded the winner of the 2nd annual Triple Play Fit Family Challenge, Parade Magazine reported Saturday.

"When I was growing up, both of my parents worked, so it was a great place to be. It exposed me to wrestling and the arts and it just helped me stay out of trouble because it wasn't exactly the most upscale neighborhood where I grew up," Lopez told the magazine.

He said the organization along with "being blessed with great parents" helped prepare him for fatherhood -- he and girlfriend Courtney have a 1-year-old daughter.

"I love seeing her in the mornings. She's in the best mood and she has a big smile. She's the best. I love it," Lopez said of his daughter.

The couple documented the welcoming of their first child in a reality show, "Mario Lopez: Saved By the Baby."

"I just wanted to show people my journey into being a first-time father. I have no regrets. We weren't a train wreck couple to watch. We just had a lot of fun!" Lopez said.