Empowerment through martial arts is sometimes out-of-reach for those who need it most.
Empowering Kids to Reach Their Fullest Potential
22% of children in Abilene live in poverty.
These children are more likely to experience physical, behavioral, and developmental problems, are at greater risk for violence and abuse, are less likely to finish high school, and are more likely to become pregnant as teenagers. These consequence stretch into adulthood, as children raised in poverty are more likely to experience destitution and suffer ongoing physical, emotional, and occupational problems as adults.
We want to change those odds.
What Kicks For Kids Does
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Covers Tuition Cost
Kicks for Kids has generous sponsors who provide tuition for children to train at Team Chip Martial Arts.
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Provides Gear & Equipment
Kicks for Kids furnishes gear & equipment essential for class and martial arts training, including uniforms, gear, and all promotion fees.
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Incentivizes Success
Kids in the program can earn fun items like t-shirts and private lessons, through good grades and positive behavior at school and home!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Kicks for Kids sponsors applicants between the ages of 7-18.
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Students can choose either Tae Kwon Do or Jiu Jitsu. Here’s a short description of each:
Tae Kwon Do is the core of the Team Chip TRADITIONAL program. These classes are primarily stand-up martial arts curriculum. The traditional martial arts curriculum is oriented primarily around Tae Kwon Do with elements of Krav Maga, Kickboxing, & Karate.
Jiu Jitsu is primarily a ground sport. The Jiu Jitsu program is a structured, self-defense based program. Team Chip is the only certified Carlos Machado Affiliate in Abilene.
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To qualify, applicants must be referred by a school, agency, or Team Chip member; they must be between the ages of 7 and 17; their total household income must be equal to or less than federal poverty guidelines; and they must complete an application and in-home interview. Other factors considered for admission include academic performance, school behavior, home behavior, family environment, neighborhood environment, community involvement, ongoing poverty risk, and child factors.
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Each child enrolled in Kicks for Kids needs a sponsor. Sponsors cover the cost of tuition, while fund raising covers costs like uniforms, gear, and testings. Sponsors pay a discounted rate of $110 a month per child and are tax-deductible.
What Parents Are Saying
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"When we signed [our child] up, we were struggling with a new ADHD and autism diagnosis. I cannot explain how proud we are every time he makes small steps of improvement in each class."
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"I am a single mom with two kids. I knew it wasn't in the budget to do activities like this. Thanks to Kicks for Kids, my boys are getting a once in a lifetime opportunity!"
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"My daughter is LOVING the kids jiu jitsu classes. She is a NEW KID since starting."
