Veterans First Responders

Join the Resilient Responders Program: Empowering First Responders with Strength and Confidence

In the fast-paced world of emergency response, physical and mental resilience aren’t just important, they’re essential. That’s why the Veterans and First Responders (VFR) Foundation is proud to present the Resilient Responders Martial Arts Program, hosted at the Kang Do Won Institute in Willoughby, Ohio.
This six-month program is more than just a class—it’s a transformative experience designed to help first responders build:

Why Martial Arts?

Founder David Knott created the Resilient Responders Program to provide responders with real world tools for overcoming stress and staying resilient. “The most important lesson is what we call ‘self-help in the moment,’” says Knott, “a safe coping mechanism that builds resiliency and confidence, invaluable to their everyday work.”

Meet the Kang Do Won Responder Team

This extraordinary team brings over 45 years of combined martial arts expertise and 24 ranking degrees. With a blend of real-world responder experience and martial arts mastery, these instructors offer the perfect balance of knowledge and skill.

Headmaster Gary M. Hotchkiss

35 years at Kang Do Won
Eastlake Police Officer
7th Degree Black Belt

Senior Master Teacher Judeth M. Lewis

35 years with Kang Do Won
Retired nurse of 43 years
7th Degree Black Belt

Elizabeth M. Maurer

35 years at Kang Do Won
Employed by the Department of Defense
6th Degree Black Belt

Instructor Cameron Knott

26 years at Kang Do Won
Cleveland Heights Police Officer
3rd Degree Black Belt

Bryan Brokate

9 years at Kang Do Won
Retired Military LTC with 37 years of Army experience
1st Degree Black Belt

Led by Grand Master Richard J. Lewis, with 51 years of martial arts experience and an 8th Degree Black Belt, this team is dedicated to helping you thrive in both body and mind.

Program Details

    First Name

    Last Name

    Department

    Years of Service

    A brief explanation of your interest

    Don’t miss this chance to gain resilience, confidence, and skills that will last a lifetime. The tools you’ll gain are designed to help you face challenges head-on, both on and off the job.
    Join the Resilient Responders Program and rise to the challenges of tomorrow. #ResilientResponders #VFRFoundation

    INTERESTED IN ONE OF OUR PROGRAMS ?

    For a limited time, take advantage of our special trial offer:

    1 Month + Uniform for $25.

    IN MEMORIUM

    Passed Away Tuesday, June 16, 2015. You Will Never Be Forgotten!

    Maureen A. Soeder

    Probationary Junior Master Teacher

    Other Interests:

    Jayson Nagy

    Poom Instructor

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    Maria Zinner

    Instructor

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    Cameron Knott

    Instructor

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    Lacee Beringer

    Senior Instructor

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    Mary Wyrzykowski

    Senior Instructor

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    John Kingston

    Probationary Junior Master Teacher

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    Rosemarie Teresi

    Junior Master Teacher

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    Elizabeth M. Maurer

    Master Teacher

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    Judeth M. Lewis

    Senior Master Teacher

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    Richard J. Lewis

    Grand Master Teacher

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