Bullying Prevention

Every $900 raised will sponsor one local at-risk or bullied child for his or her initial 6 months of martial arts training at Casey's ATA Black Belt Academy, including tuition, uniform (dobok) and testing fees for rank advancement. The curriculum of Songahm Taekwondo strives to instill confidence, respect, self-control, loyalty, and integrity in its students in addition to physical strength, balance, and flexibility.

A child who has received martial arts training is far better equipped to deal with peer pressure, bullying, stress, and even physical assault than a child who has simply participated in a seasonal team sport. A student of martial arts is not only taught how to defend him- or herself when required, but also how to avoid the escalation of conflict to the point where such actions are needed.

Bullies exist in every child's life. It is an unfortunate fact. While other programs work to end the culture of bullying on a broad scale, I feel my energies and efforts would be more effectively spent in helping children develop the skills to deal with bullying so that tragic outcomes can be averted & more children can survive the tribulations of adolescence to become responsible, productive, happy adults.

It is hoped that the sponsored children will continue their training after the initial 6 months, but even if they do not, they will carry the benefits of the experience with them forever.

I have no vested interested in this fundraiser beyond the desire to make a positive difference in the lives of as many children as I can, and I believe very strongly that training in Songahm Taekwondo is an effective, empowering way to do that.

This is a Kick It Forward Foundation initiative and is not sponsored by Casey's ATA Black Belt Academy.