Thousand Waves recognizes that people with disabilities experience violence at highly elevated rates and that youth are among the most frequent targets of bullying. Through a partnership with the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, we run the ongoing Adapted Seido Karate (ASK) program to give young people with disabilities the skills, strength, and confidence from dedicated martial practice.
ASK is coordinated by Sensei Tom West, Senpai Denise Coleman, and Senpai Sam Boyer, assisted by volunteers from Thousand Waves. Shirley Ryan Ability Lab’s Caring for Kids program provides training space and other resources for a nominal registration fee. Thousand Waves provides uniforms, practice materials, and rank promotions with proceeds from our annual Spirit Challenge fundraiser and other contributions. This partnership allows ASK students to train regardless of their financial situation.
Since its inception in 2006, ASK has helped dozens of children and young adults with disabilities cultivate strength, fitness, confidence, and discipline while having fun.
Classes are open to students aged 5 to 17 whose primary diagnosis is a physical disability, with the approval of their primary care physician. Classes are held in 10- and 11-week sessions on Sundays from 3:30 – 4:30 pm. Classes are held at the Drucker Center, 1535 N. Dayton Ave., Chicago, IL 60642.
For member registration and questions about the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, please contact:
Demitra Madden, CTRS
Sports Coordinator
Shirley Ryan Ability Lab
541 N. Fairbanks Ct. – Mezz Level, Chicago, IL 60611
312-238-5010
dmadden@sralab.org
For questions about the Adapted Seido Karate program, please contact:
Thomas H. West, MEd, CPTD®
Coordinator, ASK Program
Thousand Waves Martial Arts and Self-Defense Center
1220 W. Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
773-472-7663
twest@thousandwaves.org