KarateBuilt–Wishing For Mommy

October has arrived once again! The air is a little crisper, the leaves are starting to turn, and the buzz of fall activities is everywhere. For many, October means pumpkins, costumes, ghouls, and goblins creeping out of the shadows. But October is also about something far more important: it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to raising awareness, supporting families, and standing together in the fight against a disease that impacts millions of women—and men—around the world.

At KarateBuilt, October isn’t just about training hard, breaking boards, and reaching new goals on the mat. It’s also about giving back. Every year, we proudly take part in the fight against breast cancer by teaming up with the charity Wishing for Mommy. This tradition has become one of our most meaningful community efforts, and it’s something that both students and instructors look forward to year after year.

What Is Wishing for Mommy?

Wishing for Mommy is a non-profit organization that holds a special place in the martial arts community. It was created by ATA’s very own Chief Master Landgren-Lee, an 8th-Degree Black Belt who has been training in Songahm Taekwondo for over twenty years. In 2013, Chief Master Landgren-Lee founded Wishing for Mommy with a simple but powerful mission: to support mothers going through breast cancer treatment.

The idea was born out of compassion and understanding. Fighting cancer is not only physically and emotionally draining; it’s also financially challenging. Many moms facing this battle struggle to balance treatment with caring for their families, working, and managing everyday responsibilities. Wishing for Mommy steps in to provide direct financial assistance. The funds raised help cover medical bills, groceries, childcare, or whatever a mom needs in that moment to keep fighting and caring for her family.

In just over a decade, Wishing for Mommy has grown into a movement that empowers communities to take action during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. At KarateBuilt, we are honored to be part of that movement.

The Pink Belt Revolution

So how does KarateBuilt contribute? Enter the Pink Belt Revolution.

The Pink Belt Revolution is a fundraising initiative that combines martial arts with the fight against breast cancer in a way that is both symbolic and inspiring. Every October, students have the opportunity to swap their traditional belt for a bright pink belt by making a donation of $20 to Wishing for Mommy.

This small but powerful gesture does two things:

1. It raises money for a worthy cause.
2. It visibly shows our solidarity with those fighting breast cancer.

When a dojo full of students and instructors ties on pink belts, the atmosphere changes. It’s not just about kicking higher or sparring harder—it’s about standing together as a family. The belt becomes a badge of honor, a reminder that martial arts isn’t only about self-improvement but also about using our strength to lift others up.

Over the years, KarateBuilt has raised more than $9000 for Wishing for Mommy through this program. And each year, we aim to surpass that total. What makes the effort so special is that it’s not just a donation; it’s an action that every student can proudly wear on their waist.

Why Pink Belts Matter

At first glance, wearing a pink belt might seem like a small change, but for those who have battled breast cancer, or for families who have supported loved ones through treatment, it’s a powerful symbol of unity.

• For students, it’s a way to practice compassion and community spirit alongside martial arts discipline.
• For instructors, it’s an opportunity to model the value of giving back.
• For visitors, seeing a class full of pink belts sends a clear message: this is a school that cares.

The belt color may change for a few weeks, but the lesson lasts a lifetime. Our students learn that martial arts is more than physical—it’s about character, empathy, and action.

KarateBuilt’s Students Leading the Way

One of the most inspiring parts of this campaign is watching our students take ownership of it. Kids, teens, and adults all step up, proudly donating and wearing their pink belts. They encourage each other, share stories of loved ones affected by cancer, and remind us all that this isn’t just about martial arts—it’s about community.

Parents often tell us how much they appreciate this program. For many families, breast cancer has touched someone close to them, whether it’s a mother, grandmother, aunt, or friend. When their child comes home wearing a pink belt, it sparks conversations about resilience, hope, and the importance of helping others.

For the students, it gives their training deeper meaning. Every kick and punch in October carries a little extra purpose.

The Ripple Effect

What makes initiatives like the Pink Belt Revolution so special is the ripple effect they create. The donations go directly to moms who need help, but the impact extends far beyond the financial support.

• For the moms, it’s a reminder that they are not fighting alone—that entire communities are standing with them.
• For families, it’s a source of comfort to know that others care deeply about their struggle.
• For students, it’s a lesson in leadership, empathy, and service.

Even visitors to our dojang often stop to ask about the pink belts. That curiosity spreads awareness and encourages others to get involved, whether by donating, volunteering, or simply sharing the message.

Looking Back and Moving Forward

In years past, KarateBuilt’s participation in the Pink Belt Revolution has raised more than $9000 for Wishing for Mommy, and we are determined to keep building on that momentum. Every dollar makes a difference, and every belt tied in pink tells a story of hope and resilience.

This year, we are setting our sights even higher. Our goal is not just to raise funds but also to deepen the sense of unity among our students and the larger community. Together, we can honor those who have fought breast cancer, support those who are fighting now, and work toward a future where fewer families are affected by this disease.

Join Us in the Fight

We invite everyone—students, parents, friends, and community members—to join us this October. Whether you donate, wear a pink belt, or simply help spread the word, your involvement matters.

When you step into KarateBuilt this month, you’ll see more than martial arts training. You’ll see a sea of pink belts representing compassion, resilience, and community strength. You’ll see instructors and students standing shoulder to shoulder in support of an incredible cause. Because at KarateBuilt, we believe in fighting not just for ourselves, but for each other.

October may be filled with costumes and spooky fun, but at its heart, it’s about awareness, hope, and action. By teaming up with Wishing for Mommy and embracing the Pink Belt Revolution, KarateBuilt is proud to contribute to the fight against breast cancer.

We train our bodies in the dojang, but we strengthen our hearts through service. Each pink belt tied around a student’s waist is a reminder that together, we are stronger. Together, we can make a difference.

So this October, let’s train hard, give generously, and fight with courage—not only on the mats but also in the community. Because the battle against breast cancer is one we can face, side by side, one pink belt at a time.

Call us at 888-447-8578 to get started with 2 FREE weeks of Karate Lessons!

Dr. Moody is also a licensed psychotherapist and maintains a practice at Integrated Mental Health Associates (IntegratedMHA.com) where he specializes in couples therapy and men’s issues.