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The APTSD Foundation, Empowering At-Risk Youth, One Child at a Time!MAKE YOUR TAX-DEDUCTIBLE YEAR-END GIFT BY 12/31
My Dearest Friend, Since 2011, the APTSD Foundation has served one mission. To serve our community by teaching traditional martial arts to underprivileged youth and adults to enable personal growth, empowerment, and positive life transformation through the teachings of the Foundation and our programs. Our mission is one of service, which provides life-changing impact to individuals and communities in need. Our mission is only possible through the support of generous donors – like you.
In 2025, the APTSD Foundation wants to provide scholarships for 100 youth and adults to run through our program. To achieve this goal, I need your help. Join us in making a difference today by donating to empower lives through martial arts. I have personally witnessed countless life transformations from those who have participated in our APTSD programs. Nearly 15 years ago, I established the Foundation specifically to make these transformations accessible to those who do not have the means or opportunity to enroll in one of our traditional martial arts programs. In that time, we have helped many at-risk youth and adults by providing them the tools they need to overcome extreme circumstances by empowering them with new levels of confidence, control, resiliency, and determination to succeed. From inner city or rural youth and adults in the United States to underserved communities across parts of the world, including Mexico and Nepal, we have been able to go directly where individuals in need are located and provide support and life-skills empowerment associated with our programs. Our work is 100% funded through donations by individuals and organizations who believe in our mission. Our Foundation is small, but our impact is large. Since our beginning and to this day, approximately 90% + of our funding goes directly into the communities (and individuals) we serve. Every dollar counts—give now to help us provide scholarships for those in need.
Many of you are familiar with our programs and have personally experienced a level of life transformation or witnessed this through your martial arts students. I am asking for your help to enable those who are in need, but without the means to enroll in our programs, to have this opportunity to transform their life through martial arts. Whether you can give $25 or $100 or more, any amount will help and any amount will make a difference. Many choose to give a full scholarship for someone to enroll in our program for $500 or more. Please use the links below to give whatever amount you can. Thank you in advance for your most generous gift. The APTSD Foundation is a fully accredited non-profit public charity so your gift is fully tax deductible, and you can rest assured that we are good and responsible stewards of all gifts, where 90%+ of all gifts go directly toward supporting people and communities in need. Recently one of our longtime donors shared their story of fulfillment and why they choose to support our Foundation. “The experience and training the APTSD Foundation provided has changed the lives of children in Selma, AL. It has been beyond impactful. I am proud to be part of this organization. Seeing how my contribution directly impacted a child’s life was humbling. What seems like a little to me can make such a profoundly positive impact on the life of someone with less means. I will continue to give as much as I am able, knowing a little can go a long way through the work of the APTSD Foundation.”
I have made it my life mission to serve those in need by empowering them to face any challenge through the teachings of martial arts. I know we have a shared vision in this regard. There are many who need us. With your help, we will make martial arts training through the APTSD Foundation accessible through scholarships which you can help to provide. I encourage you to visit us online at APTSDFoundation.com to learn more about our work and the Foundation, and also to read about specific stories of impact where we have changed a life through our program. Before the end of 2024, please… give as much as you are able. Again, if you can provide a full scholarship, please consider this level of gift. With that said, if many give just $25 or $50, we will be able to reach our goal to help and graduate a minimum of 100 youth and adults through our program in 2025. Whether you can give (or not) I want you to know that I am appreciative of you and grateful for your friendship as we have a shared love of martial arts. The mission of the APTSD Foundation is one of community and support for those who need martial arts the most. I invite you to join me in this quest. Again, visit APTSDFoundation.com to learn more and give to support or mission. With Gratitude Always,
World Leadership Foundation, Inc., 501 (c) 3 - Public Charity APTSD Foundation, Inc., 501 (c) 3 – Public Charity
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Giving Tuesday is a beautiful reminder of the power of generosity and how even the smallest acts of kindness can create lasting change. This year, we invite you to consider supporting the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing Martial Arts Scholarships to at-risk youth and disadvantaged seniors. Through the gift of martial arts, the foundation is empowering young people to build confidence, discipline, and resilience while helping seniors stay active and connected. Your donation—whether it’s $5, $10, $25, or more—has the potential to change lives in profound ways.
When you help a youth, you’re not just giving them an opportunity to learn martial arts. You’re helping a parent or a struggling family find hope and support. For single parents, this program offers their children a safe and structured environment where they can grow, find mentors, and thrive. For teachers and community leaders, it provides a way to invest in the next generation. And for seniors, it’s a chance to reclaim their vitality and independence. Every dollar you donate goes directly into making these opportunities possible. Even $5 can plant the seeds of change, and $25 can go a long way toward helping someone in need.
This Giving Tuesday, let’s come together to make an impact. The Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation is already making a difference in the lives of so many, but they can’t do it alone. Your contribution, no matter how small, can ripple outward to better our communities and give hope to those who need it most. Please take a moment today to join this mission of empowerment. Together, we can make sure every youth and senior has the chance to thrive.
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On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Cornerstone Martial Arts & Leadership Academy hosted its second annual Board Break-a-thon, delivering a powerful display of skill, teamwork, and community generosity. With a mission to raise funds for the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation (APTSD Foundation), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides martial arts scholarships to at-risk youth and disadvantaged seniors, this event once again demonstrated the positive impact of martial arts on individuals and communities.
A total of 23 dedicated students participated, breaking an astounding 1,400 boards collectively. Among the highlights of the day was an exceptional performance by David Schroeder, who broke an incredible 450 boards in just 47 minutes, surpassing his previous record of 374 boards set in 2023. The event raised several thousand dollars for the APTSDF, helping to provide life-changing opportunities to youth and seniors in need.
This year’s Board Break-a-thon saw the return of Monetary Gold as a sponsor, alongside new support from Travel Safe, a local Arlington-based company. Their contributions, along with those of other supporters, played a key role in the event’s success.
Among the participants was Benjamin Roe, a representative from Rising Phoenix Tang Soo Do in Albuquerque, New Mexico, which is also part of the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Federation. He joined in to support the cause by breaking boards and raising funds for the foundation, underscoring the camaraderie among martial arts schools working together for a common goal. Roe joined Cornerstone students in breaking boards and raising funds, reflecting the strong camaraderie and shared mission within the martial arts community.
The success of this fundraiser was a testament to the dedication of Cornerstone’s students, the generosity of its sponsors, and the support of the broader community. Events like these highlight the power of martial arts to bring people together for a meaningful cause, while also showcasing the discipline and skill of the participants.
Cornerstone Martial Arts & Leadership Academy extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, and supported the event, ensuring its continued success in making a positive impact.
On Saturday, November 16th, 2024, Cornerstone Martial Arts & Leadership Academy held its second annual board break-a-thon, delivering an incredible display of skill and generosity. Twenty-three dedicated students broke an astounding 1,400+ boards to raise funds for the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides martial arts scholarships to at-risk youth and disadvantaged seniors.
The event was a remarkable success, raising several thousand dollars for this meaningful cause. Among the many highlights of the day, David Schroeder achieved an exceptional feat by breaking 450 boards in just 47 minutes, surpassing his previous record of 374 boards set in 2023.
This year’s board break-a-thon drew support from both returning and new sponsors. Monetary Gold, a sponsor since the event’s inception, once again played a key role in supporting the fundraiser.
Additionally, the local Arlington-based company Travel Safe joined as a sponsor this year, demonstrating the community's growing commitment to the academy's mission. The event also welcomed Benjamin Roe, representing Rising Phoenix, an Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Federation school based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Roe joined the effort, breaking boards alongside Cornerstone students to raise funds for the foundation.
The success of this event was a testament to the dedication of Cornerstone’s students and the generosity of its supporters. Participants of all ages came together to showcase their martial arts skills while contributing to a noble cause. The academy’s efforts not only highlighted the power of the martial arts community to make a positive impact but also helped provide life-changing opportunities for at-risk youth.
Cornerstone Martial Arts & Leadership Academy extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, and supported the event, ensuring its continued success in helping those in need.
Cornerstone Martial Arts & Leadership Academy recently hosted its second annual Board Break-a-thon, an event dedicated to raising funds for charitable causes. On Saturday, November 16th, an enthusiastic group of 23 students participated in this exciting challenge, successfully breaking a remarkable total of 1,400 boards. Among these dedicated martial artists, David Schroeder, a talented student, made headlines by breaking an astounding 450 boards in just 47 minutes. This achievement surpassed his own previous record of 374 boards, which he set during the 2023 event.
The Board Break-a-thon not only showcased the impressive skills of the students but also served a noble purpose. Collectively, the Cornerstone Martial Arts & Leadership Academy was able to raise several thousand dollars for the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation. This nonprofit organization, classified as a 501(c)(3), is committed to providing scholarships for martial arts training to at-risk youth and disadvantaged seniors, helping to give these individuals opportunities they might not otherwise have.
This year, the event saw increased support with Monetary Gold returning as a sponsor for the second consecutive year, demonstrating their commitment to community involvement and philanthropy. Additionally, Travel Safe, a local company based in Arlington, stepped up as a new sponsor, further enhancing the reach and impact of the event.
Among the participants was Benjamin Roe, a representative from Rising Phoenix Tang Soo Do in Albuquerque, New Mexico, which is also part of the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Federation. He joined in to support the cause by breaking boards and raising funds for the foundation, underscoring the camaraderie among martial arts schools working together for a common goal.
Overall, the fundraising event was a tremendous success, drawing participants of all ages who united to break boards and support at-risk youth. The spirit of teamwork and determination was evident as students channeled their energy and skills into a meaningful cause, making a positive difference in the lives of those in need.
Here are the key details about the Cornerstone Martial Arts & Leadership Academy's second annual board break-a-Thon fundraiser:
- The event was held on Saturday, November 16, 2024.
- 23 students from the academy broke a total of 1,400 boards.
- David Schroeder, a student, broke 450 boards in 47 minutes, breaking his previous best of 374 boards in 2023.
- The event raised several thousand dollars for the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do (APTSD) Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides martial arts scholarships to at-risk youth and disadvantaged seniors.
- The event was sponsored by Monetary Gold for the second year, and this year, local Arlington company Travel Safe also sponsored the event.
- Benjamin Roe, representing Rising Phoenix in Albuquerque, New Mexico, another APTSD Federation school, also participated in the board breaking and fundraising.
- The event was a complete success, with students of all ages breaking boards to raise funds for at-risk youth.
Overall, the Cornerstone Martial Arts & Leadership Academy's board break-a-thon was a successful fundraising event that supported a worthy cause and showcased the skills and dedication of the academy's students.
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The Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation (APTSDF) would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to Monetary Gold and Travel Safe for their generous sponsorship of the Second Annual Board Breakathon, hosted by Cornerstone Martial Arts and Leadership Academy.
Your support has been instrumental in helping us continue our mission of providing opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and martial arts education to at-risk youth, disadvantaged seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
This event, held to benefit the APTSDF, was a resounding success, and it would not have been possible without the backing of these two incredible companies. Let’s take a closer look at the sponsors who went above and beyond to make a difference.
Monetary Gold: A Trusted Partner in Precious Metals
Monetary Gold, a company with a rich history and deep expertise in precious metals, has been a steadfast supporter of the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation.
Specializing in gold and silver investment services, Monetary Gold has built a reputation for trustworthiness and excellence, helping individuals protect their financial futures through diversification into precious metals.
Their commitment to empowering individuals financially aligns beautifully with the APTSDF’s goal of empowering individuals through martial arts and leadership development.
This is the second year Monetary Gold has sponsored an event hosted by Cornerstone Martial Arts, and their ongoing support has made a tangible impact on the lives of those we serve. Thanks to their generosity, more at-risk youth have been able to access scholarships for martial arts training, seniors have had the opportunity to improve their physical and mental well-being, and individuals with disabilities have found strength, confidence, and community through our programs.
Monetary Gold’s sponsorship reflects their dedication not only to their clients but also to the broader community. Their belief in the power of investing—not only in financial security but also in people—has helped the APTSDF grow and thrive.
Travel Safe: Supporting Community Through Connection
Travel Safe, Inc. is a trusted leader in Data Center Solutions, specializing in precision data center decommissioning, demolition, and restoration services.
With a nationwide reach, Travel Safe has built a reputation for delivering innovative, affordable, and efficient turnkey solutions. Their expertise includes certified data destruction, equipment recycling, tenant move-outs, and the purchase and sale of used data center equipment. By providing faster and cost-effective services, Travel Safe has distinguished itself as an industry leader dedicated to excellence.
Founded on a commitment to delivering value, Travel Safe guarantees superior service by offering higher payouts for used equipment, better warranties, and comprehensive project support. They have worked with major data centers across the nation, helping clients recoup their capital investment expenditures while optimizing project costs. Whether it's environmental recycling, rigging and transporting sensitive equipment, or interior restoration, Travel Safe is recognized as a trusted partner in the field.
This year, Travel Safe joined as a sponsor for the Second Annual Board Breakathon, held at Cornerstone Martial Arts and Leadership Academy to benefit the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation. The connection runs deep, as the company is owned by the father of one of Cornerstone’s students, making their contribution even more meaningful.
Travel Safe’s sponsorship reflects their dedication to community support and their belief in empowering individuals through programs like those offered by the APTSDF.
Their generosity has helped fund scholarships, leadership camps, and martial arts training for at-risk youth, disadvantaged seniors, and individuals with disabilities. As a company that specializes in solving complex problems with precision and care, Travel Safe’s sponsorship aligns with the mission of the APTSDF: to create opportunities for growth, resilience, and leadership in individuals from all walks of life. Their partnership is a testament to the impact local businesses can have when they invest in their communities.
The Impact of Sponsorship
The contributions of Monetary Gold and Travel Safe go far beyond financial support—they represent a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Their sponsorship of the Second Annual Board Breakathon has helped the APTSDF achieve several key objectives:
- Supporting Scholarships:
The funds raised through this event will directly benefit at-risk youth, disadvantaged seniors, and individuals with disabilities by providing scholarships for martial arts training, leadership camps, and personal development programs. - Expanding Leadership Camps:
With these sponsorships, the APTSDF can continue to host impactful leadership camps that teach participants valuable life skills, build resilience, and foster a sense of community. - Creating Community Connections:
Events like the Board Breakathon bring together students, families, businesses, and community members, strengthening the bonds that make our organization and mission so special. - Empowering Individuals:
The support of our sponsors allows us to empower individuals to overcome challenges, build confidence, and achieve their full potential through the art of Tang Soo Do.
A Message of Gratitude
To Monetary Gold and Travel Safe, we cannot thank you enough for your generosity and belief in our mission. Your support has made a world of difference, and we are honored to have you as partners in our journey to transform lives through martial arts. Your contributions are helping us build stronger communities, one individual at a time.We look forward to continuing this partnership and working together to create even more opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and empowerment. Thank you for being champions of our cause and for helping us make a lasting impact.
Tang Soo!
Kwan Jang Nim John St. James
Founder, President, and CEO
Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation
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I write to you today to ask for your help. Not for me but for the communities we serve. As you know, traditional martial arts provide preparedness tools and training for personal growth and development. For many, their martial arts training is a key component to success and life fulfillment.
Transform a life today—support our mission by contributing $25, $50, or even a full scholarship.
J. John St. James, Board Chair

























