May 30, 2011

33rd Annual Cornell Camp

Toronto Branch members with Sakuyama-sensei

In a weekend framed by thunderstorms of truly epic proportions, five members of Toronto Branch travelled to Trumansburg, NY to take part in the 33rd annual Cornell Camp - one of the longest continually running Shorinji Kempo events in the world.

The Camp was led this year by Sakuyama-sensei of Ibaragi Takahagi Branch in Japan. The presence of Sakuyama-sensei at the event was incredible since he hails from a region of Japan devastated by the effects of the great eastern earthquake.

Sakuyama-sensei has the rare ability to simultaneously and effectively teach a wide range of skill levels (e.g. beginner to 5th dan) in such a way that all benefit equally. Indeed, the Camp began with close attention to footwork and body movement before moving on to applications.

In addition to the masterful teachings of Sakuyama-sensei, we once again enjoyed the communal spirit of the Camp - one where all members can practice the teachings of Shorinji Kempo and express them in all their activities.

Beautiful Camp Barton - the site of Cornell Camp

We wish to thank Sakuyama-sensei and the organizers of the camp for providing such a great experience.

Gassho

May 18, 2011

16th Annual Charity "Kickathon" for CAMH Foundation

These legs are gonna do some kickin'!

2011 marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Doshin So - the founder of Shorinji Kempo. Our founder always viewed his art primarily as a way of developing people to equip them to effectively contribute to society. All Shorinjji Kempo branches around the world engage in charitable work or social programs in the month of May in memory of the life of Doshin So.

Since 1996 the members of Shorinji Kempo Toronto Branch have held events in support of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).

Limbering up - with feeling!

This year we held our 16th Annual Charity Kickathon on behalf of the CAMH Foundation at the CAMH Russell Street site in the university area of Toronto.


The Kickathon in full swing!

All members completed 500 kicks in return for generous sponsorship from many donors.
The final total raised this year was $6,450.

We would like to thank our wonderful friends, families, co-workers and employers for their incredible generosity in supporting this event.


The funds raised in our Kickathon will be used by CAMH to support:

1. Research into the roots causes of drug addiction
2. Treatment programs to help addicts wean themselves off drugs.

We sincerely hope that this initiative will help addicts rebuild their lives and know once again the joy of living.

We would also like to thank the staff of the CAMH Foundation for their hard work in managing the donations this year.

Thumbs up for CAMH!

Gassho