The program targets and
instills protective factors in the students, which are known to enhance
resiliency. Resiliency is invulnerability to stressful situations and problems.
It is also the ability to bounce back from adversity and adapt successfully.
Teach Discipline
All children are begging for
discipline, although they will never ask for it. Karate teaches children how to
discipline themselves and shows them how critical a tool discipline is for
achieving their desired goals. The black belt instructors, trained by Chuck to
communicate most effectively with this age group, are providing the discipline
lacking in most aspects of the youngsters' lives.
Instill A Sense Of
Belonging
A sense of belonging is an
integral part of everyone's life and many of the inner city children turn to
gang-related groups because they feel they fit in nowhere else. The Foundation
offers them a positive alternative. When students join the program, they earn
the right to belong to the Joaquim Almeria Team - "T" for
truth, "E" for esteem, "A" for attitude, "M" for
motivation.
Provide Opportunity For Meaningful Participation In Communities And Schools
Opportunities are afforded
the students by the instructors to exhibit their skills at outside
organizations, help raise funds for their school program, offer their services
for outside community service programs, etc. In addition, a citywide community
is developed among participants at each of the schools. MAAD hosts
several events, which allow for student participation, including tournaments for
students from all schools to compete together. There are also joint community
service projects.
Set Reachable Goals
Each student will strive for
small goals set by the instructor which helps the student realize he/she
actually can succeed. Goal-setting is a very important asset, which will be
valuable throughout their lives.
Create Reflective
Individuals
Provide an environment where
the child can recognize his/her insecurities and develop a sense of
responsibility toward self and others.
Increase Family
Participation
One of Joaquim Almeria'
major concerns is the disintegration of the family unit in today's society. The
Martial Arts program focuses on involving the parents and family members in the
program's activities. School district officials are shocked at the phenomenal
results to date. In all of our participating schools, the average for parental
attendance for school functions is 5%. For every Martial Arts ceremony or
function at the school, over 85% of the families attend. The families are truly
proud of their son/daughter who are part of the Joaquim Almeria T.E.A.M. There
are many other events and activities in which the parents are invited to
participate as members of a "Parent Booster Club".
Transfer Skills