Earning a black belt in the martial arts signifies years of hard work and discipline. But as reporter Rick Carhart shows us in tonight's Kids In Action, one young black belt candidate in Chico has done more than just learn a skill, he spent countless hours making life better for those less fortunate.
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12-year-old Alexander Green has been working out at Azad's Martial Arts center for years.
Master Azad says, "for 50 percent of his life he's been a martial artist."
Alexander says, "it gives me a chance to work out, be with friends I've made over the past six years."
Later this week Alexander will take the test that will determine whether he gets to wrap a "black belt" around his waist.
His father David Green says, "he's become certainly very strong, healthy, and active...it's been great."
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But earning a black belt in Grand Master Farshad Azad's studio is not as simple as breaking a few boards or learning to handle weapons, he wants his students to find their place in the community.
Master Azad says, "we are hoping to help the children to build such a strong self-esteem that they raise to their maximum potential, and expand that potential every step."
He challenged Alexander to collect 2011 pieces of clothing and donate them to the Torres Homeless Shelter. Once the initial shock wore off, Alexander got to work.
His Mom Susan Green says, "he's determined, caring, and thinks about others, and has incorporated the idea that community service is a way of life."
Torres Shelter supervisor Shawn Osborne says, "the things Alex was able to secure such as clothing, toys, personal hygiene, are going to go a long way and are greatly appreciated."
Master Azad knew his young student would rise to the challenge, and it has been a great learning experience.
Alexander says, "feels wonderful, I've helped potentially thousands of people."
Master Azad says, "he's already proven to me that he has what it takes to become a leader, and I'd be proud to call him one of my black belts."
Alexander has more than just a new uniform, he also has a life lesson that will stay with him forever. In Chico, I'm Rick Carhart for Action News. }
Last week, Alexander delivered over 2200 pieces of clothing to the Torres Shelter, and the donations are still coming in.
