Sparring for relief

Kung Fu Academy raises Irma funds

The John Wai Kung Fu Academy in Plantation was one of the local businesses that worked to raise funds for Hurricane Irma relief.

The academy recently held eight special classes for their Sweat for a Cause Hurricane Irma Relief Fundraiser event. Members of the community were encouraged to take one class or several out of eight in total for free with a cash donation.

“We consider ourselves a community-based martial arts school,” said John Wai, head instructor of the martial arts school. “We have a solid member base and we feel that any time we can collaborate our team effort, we can get things done.”

Classes offered included kickboxing, yoga, women’s self-defense, jiu-jitsu for beginners, best self-defense techniques for men and women, bully defense for kids ages eight through 12, and stranger danger for kids ages three to seven.

The academy was able to put the event together in just three days. The original plan was to host an event for Hurricane Harvey relief for those affected in Texas but the arrival of Irma derailed their set date. They were able to raise around $1,300 in total, all of which will be donated to the Red Cross.

Wai said the concept of martial arts is about teaching discipline, kindness, and humility. With this in mind, the academy works to involve both its adult and young students in giving back to the community, especially during times of need. Being able and willing to help others is a lesson they hope everyone learns.

“When something happens, we always got to pitch in and give a helping hand,” said Wai. “There’s a lesson there for everyone.”

For more information on the John Wai Kung Fu Academy, visit Johnwai.com.