Self-Defense Classes Now Forming

The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk announces a series of six self-defense classes are now forming for women and girls' empowerment. Sessions will be held on Saturdays from June 3 through July 8, 2023, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am at EP Martial Arts Academy, 345 Taunton Avenue in East Providence.

Led by Candace Rushton, a 5th degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt who specializes in violence prevention, the program will cover protective stances, awareness of surroundings, techniques to defend oneself safely during an assault or crime, and more self-defense skills.

“Rotary International has put an emphasis this year on empowering girls, to protect and improve their wellbeing and enhance their quality of life,” states Kathleen Shatraw, 2023 president of The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk. “Our Club is pleased to partner with the EP Martial Arts Academy in offering this safety program for girls and women.”

Rushton is recognized as a positive female role model in martial arts. In addition to teaching Jiu Jitsu for over 22 years, she competed in grappling tournaments internationally and earned the title of Women’s Lightweight Advanced North American Grappling Association Champion for two consecutive years. She has been working in human services for the past 40 years where she has dedicated her time in the safety and protection of children and families. A graduate of the Rhode Island Victims Assistance Academy, Candace has also attended countless trainings on conflict resolution, behavior management, and understanding sensory diagnoses and sensitivities in people. She has a background in the healing arts as a Reiki Master and Meditation and Mindfulness teacher.

“Candace is an excellent, credentialed instructor who is donating her time for this important women’s empowerment initiative,” comments Bart Axelrod, an owner and founder of EP Martial Arts Academy and member of the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club. “This is an opportunity to get specialized training in a controlled and safe environment. It’s a fact that self-defense helps to build confidence and help people find safety in threatening situations.”

Space is limited to 20 participants per class. Pre-registration is required. Participants should dress in sneakers and comfortable clothing.

The program is open to females aged 13+ regardless of physical fitness. Attendees will receive a t-shirt on the first day of class and a pink belt upon completion. Cost is $99 per person total for all six classes. Scholarships are available upon inquiry.

To register, contact Bart Axelrod at bart.axelrod@gmail.com  or 401-489-3189.