CLEVELAND, OHIO / ACCESSWIRE / July 2, 2024 / What started as a casual conversation on a business golf course evolved into transformative community work for Todd Caccamo, a veteran corporate executive from Troy. While out and about, Caccamo spoke with the husband of an employee at Community Living Services in Wayne, an organization that helps adults with developmental disabilities live independently. The conversation brought back memories of an aunt who is developmentally disabled, and prompted Caccamo to seek a way to give back to others facing similar challenges.
Motivated to make a difference, Caccamo ran the All Star Karate Family Center in Westland, offering martial arts classes to adults with developmental disabilities. “I realized I could make a difference by teaching martial arts,” Caccamo said. He enlisted the help of his colleagues Brian Hubbard and Eric Mullinix to help him realize his vision. With approval from the Department of Community Life Services, the trio trained nine eager students for an hour every Saturday.
The classes are more than just physical training; they focus on building respect, confidence and coordination. Elements of traditional martial arts such as bows, palm thrusts, kicks, blocks and front rolls are adapted to each student's ability. “We've been training with these students for eight weeks,” says Caccamo. “It's amazing to see their confidence and coordination improve. The most rewarding part is seeing them overcome their initial fears and take pride in their progress.”
It typically takes about a year to master basic self-defense techniques, but Caccamo emphasizes that the benefits of these early classes go beyond physical ability. The training sessions significantly improve students' overall fitness and self-confidence. The undertaking is a testament to the power of martial arts in making people physically and mentally stronger.
Todd Caccamo's dedication to this work is deeply personal and driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. His extensive leadership and community service experience is reflected in his approach to martial arts programs. As Managing Director, Vice President and Director of Sales for Materion Corporation, Caccamo has driven innovation and growth and demonstrated a commitment to excellence that he now applies to his volunteer work. His professional accomplishments are matched by a dedication to community service and involvement in various organizations.
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Caccamo's 10 years of hockey coaching experience has led to his passion for mentoring and youth development. As a USA Hockey certified coach, he teaches his players the values of discipline, teamwork and perseverance. These same principles are applied to his martial arts instruction, helping students learn self-defense and build self-confidence and self-esteem.
Caccamo’s volunteer work with All Star Karate Family Center highlights his belief in the transformative power of community support. By providing martial arts training to adults with developmental disabilities, he helps them build self-confidence, coordination and a sense of accomplishment. It’s more than just a class; it’s a stepping stone to students’ independence and self-reliance.
contact:
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