Since 2007, Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL) and The Nest have strived to provide top-notch services to victims and survivors of domestic violence. Despite good intentions and dedication, unfortunately, the shelter cannot offer everything residents need or want. It is in those unfulfilled hopes that volunteers and donors emerge…and shine.
Exercise is well-known for its ability to aid mental health. Until recently, residents at The Nest were unable to get meaningful physical activity unless they already knew how to exercise or one of the busy Advocates could be talked into hosting an informal class. The children residing at the shelter, in their formative years, full of energy and lacking physical activity outside of school, are perhaps the most affected. Fortunately, the problem has now been addressed by a local Hapkido instructor, Michael Widener.
“The Nest called me one day,” Widener said. “They told me about a few children at the shelter and a little about what they had each been through. I wanted to help make sure that they would never have to go through that again. I would hate to see anyone continue to be abused.”
Widener offered to take on the children at his karate class. After studying martial arts for almost 30 years and teaching for nearly 15, he recognizes the value martial arts could provide to the children, such as self-control, discipline and strength. “I want to give them confidence, and I think the best way to get confidence is to earn it,” Widener said. “I want them to be able to defend themselves.”
Widener also believes the classes will help the children value personal growth. “I believe in growing. I keep challenging myself and always have a goal. I keep learning. No one knows everything.”
Even after 30 years, he continues to strive for advancement. A third degree black belt, he is working on his fourth and aims to be a fifth degree black belt next year. “I’m going to Korea to test with Grandmaster Han Youn Choi’s son,” Widener said, mentioning the late Grandmaster as a mentor and inspiration. “I’m very blessed to have a connection to him.”
By teaching the children about martial arts, Widener is offering an exciting outlet for the kids at the shelter while embracing the mission of The Nest – to end violence on a powerful and personal level. The training he provides will have a lasting effect in the lives of his students.
Pictured is Michael Widener, volunteer martial arts instructor for the children at the Nest.