Our Story & Mission

For over 35 years, our non-profit has served the West Atco community. Discover our story and the mission behind it: providing affordable martial arts for all.

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West Atco Youth In Action, Inc., is a grassroots, non-profit organization dedicated to the children and youth of the greater South Jersey area. Established in 1990, the organization is committed to improving the academic performance of our youth while simultaneously developing their character and self-esteem.

To accomplish this goal, we offer programming that focuses on nurturing three core areas within our children:

Self Discipline

Self Respect

Unwavering Focus

We believe that if our students master and develop these foundational characteristics, they will succeed in the classroom and in life. West Atco Youth in Action, Inc. offers athletic, academic, and recreational activities designed to make a positive and lasting impact on our children's lives.

West Atco Youth In Action, Inc. has held 501© (3) status since 1994. Our program has operated out of the beautifully renovated West Atco Learning and Resource Center since June 2002. The building was generously gifted to our organization by the West Atco Fire Department.

Achieving Academic Excellence through Martial Arts

Our innovative approach of tying academic achievement with Martial Arts has been revolutionary. Through our program, students who once performed at a mediocre to average level in school began to earn academic honors on a consistent basis. Over 80% of our students go on to pursue higher education after graduating high school, which allows them to lead productive and fulfilling lives.

Our program is founded on the Martial Arts beliefs that teach: self-respect, respect for others, and anti-bullying techniques. Our program is dedicated to providing at-risk youth with education and skills to reach their highest potential.

After-school tutoring and martial arts instruction are offered Monday through Saturday. Adult volunteers, consisting of retired teachers and other professionals, provide invaluable instruction and direction to our students.

Students are required to share report cards and progress reports with the West Atco staff to verify that they are achieving in the classroom.

We exist to provide quality educational programs that get children excited about learning, while improving their overall focus, developing self-discipline, instilling self-respect, and promoting respect for others.

AMERICAN GO JU (hard/soft) KARATE WEST ATCO

American Goju Karate West Atco martial arts/karate training is provided by West Atco Youth in Action, Inc., Monday through Friday during the school year.

Our students are trained in a unique style of martial arts that focuses primarily on the physical, intellectual, emotional, and confidence-building aspects of the art.

Students at our program will:

Develop life changing skills.

Have the opportunity to achieve the level of Black Belt

Build their self-esteem

Learn how to productively interact with peers and adults

Gain a sense of accomplishment.