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KICKSTART KIDS' GOAL FOR OUR STUDENTS
Encourage students to resolve conflicts productively
Avoid participation in gangs
Choose a drug-free lifestyle
Remain in high school until they graduate
Develop inner-strength and resiliency
Increase daily school attendance
Believe in themselves and their ability to achieve their personal goals
BRIEF HISTORY
On August 16, 1990, the Kick Drugs Out of America Foundation (dba KICKSTART KIDS) was formed by Mr. Chuck Norris. He wanted to provide a martial arts program that came at no cost to the students, a program that would teach kids all the valiant traits the martial arts has to offer.
In 1992, with the help of former President George H.W. Bush, the program was officially implemented in four schools in the Houston area: Burbank, Central, Hamilton, and Hogg.
Today, our program operates in 43 schools in the Houston, Dallas, Galveston, and Austin areas of Texas. We currently serve over 6,500 of today's youth, making a positive impact in their lives. The purpose of the Foundation’s mentoring program has always been to help provide an alternative to drugs and gang activities related to peer pressure.
WHY MARTIAL ARTS?
Martial art training serves as a vehicle to instill the values and skills necessary to combat the peer pressures associated with at risk behaviors. The core philosophy of Martial Arts stresses the vital importance of a healthy mind and body necessary to lead a productive life.
Our program is evaluated yearly, and studies have shown that KICKSTART KIDS has impacted the lives of children in a positive way. Not only has the program helped children resist risky behaviors, but the program has contributed to the development of conflict resolution skills and a reduction in youth violence, has attached youth to a caring adult, created more independence and competency, and nurtured higher aspirations. The program targets and instills protective factors in the students, which are known to enhance resiliency by incorporating the following key strategies:
KEY STRATEGIES
Teach discipline with positive reinforcement
Instill a sense of belonging
Provide an opportunity for meaningful participation in communities and schools
Set attainable goals
Create reflective individuals
Increase family participation
Transfer skills
Collaborate with faculty and administrators
