Capoeira history has shown positive results in directing youth towards a productive life style. Knowing this, Prof. Chin organized the Kids Low Income Program (KLIP) in 2002. The KLIP is a yearly four-month capoeira program for 20 to 30 low-income children living in the Santa Barbara area. Chin provides a supportive and playful environment where teamwork, respect, good health, and the disciplines of capoeira are emphasized. The program ends with the kids participating in a traditional ceremony that is called a batziado where they receive their cords/belts. In addition they meet many different masters and professors of capoeira, including the founder of Capoeira Sul da Bahia, Mestre Railson. This is a very special and unique opportunity for these kids.

Through studying capoeira, these kids not only learn the basic movements of capoeira, but also the traditional music which includes instruments and songs sung in Portuguese. In the processes of learning capoeira the kids will develop a range of physical qualities such as: force, speed, muscular strength, balance and motor coordination. As well as be exposed to the elements of music: melody, beat, rhythm, harmony, and form.

Yet capoeria goes beyond the music and physical enhancements. The rich content found in studying capoeira in a group environment influences one’s personal and social skills. By encouraging values such as self-awareness, discipline, respect, teamwork, and cooperation, capoeira helps to teach and instill the values of loyalty, responsibility and self-confidence. In this way it helps in the positive formation of those who participate and become involved in the practice of capoeira.

To make a donation to our low income program click in the link bellow.

For more information or to donate to this program, please call Prof.Chin at (805) 637-5355.

---