Sam’s Community Service Project
Empowering Our Environment: Ms. Sam’s Journey to a Second-Degree Black Belt
Meet Ms. Sam, a dedicated martial artist and environmental advocate who recently achieved her second-degree black belt! But her journey doesn’t stop there—she’s also passionate about giving back to the community and the environment.
A Green Initiative
In December, Ms. Sam participated in a vital service project at the Maple Grove Forest Preserve, where she and her high school environmental club worked tirelessly to combat invasive tree species. Over two weekends, they learned about the negative impact of invasive plants, like the common mulberry bush, on Illinois forests.
While many might mistake overgrown forests as healthy, Ms. Sam discovered that these invasive species block sunlight and disrupt the growth of native trees. Her team rolled up their sleeves to clear out these harmful plants, allowing the natural ecosystem to flourish.
Taking Action
The project involved not just cutting down invasive trees but also educating fellow students and community members about the importance of maintaining healthy forests. Ms. Sam and her peers identified larger invasive species, demonstrating teamwork and leadership in their efforts to restore the preserve.
As Ms. Sam says, “It’s not just about what we can do today; it’s about creating a sustainable future for our forests.”
Join the Movement
Want to make a difference like Ms. Sam? Consider getting involved in local environmental initiatives. Whether it’s participating in tree planting events, volunteering for clean-up days, or simply educating your friends and family about invasive species, every action counts!
Together, we can help preserve the beauty of our natural landscapes for generations to come. Let’s follow in Ms. Sam’s footsteps and take a stand for our environment!
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For more inspiring stories and ways to get involved, stay tuned to our blog!
True Balance Karate was founded in 2012 by Master Sue and Paul Helsdon. We offer specialized karate lessons for children and comprehensive fitness programs for adults, tailored to meet the unique needs of each age group.
Kids Karate Lessons
Our kids’ karate lessons are designed for:
- Pre-school children ages 3-6
- Elementary age kids ages 7 and up
These lessons are designed to develop the critical building blocks kids need — specialized for their age group — for school excellence and later success in life.
Adult Martial Arts Training
Our adult martial arts training provides a complete fitness and conditioning program for those who want to:
- Lose weight
- Get and stay in shape
- Learn self-defense in a supportive environment
About Master Sue Helsdon
Master Sue Helsdon is a certified instructor with the World Tang Soo Do Association and a certified judge. Her diverse training includes Tang Soo Do, Shotokan Karate, Kung Fu, and Qi Gong. With a background as a certified special education teacher and two master’s degrees in education, she brings extensive classroom experience to the training floor and our instructor’s education.
Master Sue is also the author of Inspired by a Black Belt; Lessons in Focus, Self-Confidence, Respect, and Self-Control. You can find her book on Amazon and visit her author page. She has written all the supplemental curriculum used in True Balance Karate’s advanced leadership training program and the comprehensive character program, True Character.
Contact Us
Our instructors are available to answer questions 24/7 at 630-912-0592. Visit us at: https://truebalancekarate.com/contact-us/ or stop by in person at 406 Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515 (next to CVS)
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True Balance Karate proudly serves the communities of Downers Grove, Westmont, Oakbrook, Woodridge, and Lisle. Join us and experience the benefits of martial arts training in a supportive and empowering environment.
