ThePlace2B is offering its students a new outlet to improve their mental and physical health.
It was a conversation with a student that got the discussion started on how can the YWCA Quad Cities help relieve some of the stressors our students in our ThePlace2B program face.
“One of our students talked about not having a place for them and their peers to relieve aggression or other emotions they may have. They wanted to create an appropriate environment that will allow them to discover other ways to cope in a healthy manner,” said Edwin Salazar, Youth Director and Director for ThePlace2B.
After talking and planning with other members of the YWCA Quad Cities leadership team, it was agreed that it would be the YWCA’s priority to bring something in for our youth.
“Warrior Wellness is a perfect opportunity for our youth to focus on their mental and physical health,” said Salazar.
Thanks to a grant, every Tuesday and Thursday, a group of members of ThePlace2B program gather in the gym to learn Kickboxing and KiMoodo. Kimoodo is a breathing and central nervous system activity.
Warrior Wellness classes are taught by Grand Master Doug Fuechsel. Master Fuechel is an internationally acclaimed master of teaching taekwondo and was recently appointed Vice President of the United States Taekwondo Committee.
Salazar hopes students walk away with new tools on how to deal with their emotions in a healthy way.
“Sometimes when we are feeling low and down, learning a healthy coping skill can help us deal with our obstacles a little easier.”
Only two weeks in and the response from students has been positive.
“The students that have been participating are actually enjoying it and look forward to the next session,” said Salazar.
Each student is given a Gi, a martial arts uniform, and at the end of the six-week class will be given boxing gloves. For YWCA Quad Cities members and students part of ThePlace2B program it’s free to participate. Non-members can join the class for $10 a session.
For more information, people can contact Edwin Salazar at (309) 350-2397 or at esalazar@qcywca.org.
