Discover the exciting opportunity for local youth and families to participate in free mixed martial arts classes. Strengthen family bonds and develop new skills with the support of the Clinton County Resource Center.
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Mixed Martial Arts Classes | Local youth and their families can now participate in mixed martial arts classes at no cost, thanks to a grant awarded to the Clinton County Resource Center. The classes aim to expose and engage youth in new skills while strengthening family bonds. Instructor Dow Tippett leads the classes, focusing on individual growth and specific goals. Martial arts promote learning through repetition and provide an outlet for releasing energy. Respect is a core value in martial arts, fostering a positive and supportive environment. The Competitive RECLAIM Grant covers the costs of pro-social activities, enhancing community engagement and youth development. |
Introduction
Thanks to a grant awarded to the Clinton County Resource Center, local youth and their families now have the exciting opportunity to participate in mixed martial arts classes at no cost. This initiative aims to introduce and engage young individuals in new skills while also fostering stronger family bonds.
Instructor and Enthusiasm
Leading the classes is local instructor Dow Tippett, who expressed his enthusiasm for the program. Tippett shared, "I am so excited about this class. I love helping kids become their best selves." With Tippett’s guidance, the mixed martial arts class has already attracted over 15 participants ranging from ages 8 to 45.
Collaboration and Individual Growth
The classes encourage collaboration between youth, their families, and staff from the Clinton County Juvenile Court Services and the Clinton County Resource Center. Rather than focusing on team competition, the training emphasizes individual growth and working towards specific goals. This approach allows participants to develop their skills at their own pace while building focus and self-control.
Benefits of Martial Arts
Martial arts promote learning through repetition, allowing children to gradually learn and anticipate each step. Additionally, the physical movements involved in martial arts provide an outlet for releasing energy and managing frustration or anger. Respect is a core value in martial arts, fostering a positive and supportive environment where students are encouraged to show respect for their instructor and peers.
Competitive RECLAIM Grant
The grant awarded by the Ohio Department of Youth Services, known as the Competitive RECLAIM Grant, aims to divert young individuals from further involvement with the juvenile justice system. By covering the costs of pro-social activities like art club, equine assisted learning, and 4H, the grant enhances community engagement and youth development.
Community Support
Andrew Conarroe, the programming director for CCRC, emphasized the importance of community support. He stated, "We want youth to feel supported and see members of their community engaged in the same positive activities they are. Being able to offer these activities to youth and the outside community is the ultimate package deal."
For more information on the Clinton County Resource Center and its program offerings, please contact 937-383-4114 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily.
