Professor Vernon “Taishi” Jones Jr. founded the non-profit martial arts school in 1987, when he was just 14 years old. His ambition was to provide a community service project that would benefit disadvantaged youth and their families. The school offers after school tutoring, karate classes and summer camps, with more than 70% of its student population coming from families eligible for free or reduced lunch. For over two decades, Professor Jones and his team have been providing these important services to local communities.