Save Special Kicks and Family Support

Why?

In response to the economic shortfalls within Georgia due to COVID-19, there will be a cut across the board for every department. This includes cutting funds for disability programs. These budget cuts will be another blow to the Special Needs community.  We are asking for your help!  Please help us to continue to provide for these Special families!

Georgia Lawmakers are Cutting the Following from the State Budget:

No New NOW/COMP Waiver Slots
Elimination of all Family Support Funding
Autism Funding Reduction

The Direct Results of These Budget Cuts Will Be:

Stressed and Overwhelmed Families
Neglect of Developmentally Disabled People
Reduced independent oversight and advocacy due to the budget cuts)
Unemployment

What will the money be used for?

This money will be used to fund 50 Special Kicks students during these hard times. We will use this money as a scholarship fund to support those who are currently    training and those interested in training. 


What is Special Kicks?

Special Kicks is a program which offers individualized instruction for kids and adults with special needs. Our program stresses development of balance, coordination, discipline, focus, attention, physical fitness, social skill development, and will push each student.

Specific exercises can be created to fit each student’s particular developmental needs. These can help those who may experience difficulties with walking, flexibility, overall range of motion or other concerns.

What are the Benefit of Special Kicks?

Students who participate in a karate program exhibit increased mobility, memorization and self-esteem.

Karate can also function as a form of therapy. It provides among other things:

Physical Exercise – practicing karate allows students to process information;
Consistency – repeated movements and practice help organize and focus a student’s learning;
Social Skills – setting forth the boundaries of acceptable behavior and reinforcing achievable goals, i.e., the belt system.

Most importantly, karate is “fun!” It gives students with special needs a boost of self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment that may not be received in “typical” therapy environments. The rewards of completing a technique, a kick, a strike or a punch, enables confidence and pride. Students are willing and excited to demonstrate something they have learned in class.