One With Heart Martial Arts + Self Defense

- 4231 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97215

For families in the Portland, Oregon area searching for an enriching and empowering summer camp experience, look no further than One With Heart Martial Arts + Self Defense. This esteemed institution, rooted in the community since 1981, is more than just a place to learn fighting arts. It's an independent, women-owned, and LGBTQ+ owned business that has become a true hub for personal growth, community-building, and self-empowerment. The summer camps and programs are designed to provide a safe, engaging, and fun-filled environment where children can build confidence, learn valuable life skills, and stay active during the school break.

The core philosophy of One With Heart is beautifully reflected in its approach to all its programs, including the summer camps. As one long-time adult student described, it's an "amazing place to train" with a community that is "very lgbt+ supporting and just generally very nice." This inclusive and supportive atmosphere is a cornerstone of the business, making it a welcoming space for people from all backgrounds. The instructors are not only knowledgeable but also kind, supportive, and welcoming, a sentiment echoed by a student who loved their experience in the women's self-defense class. The camps are a mix of martial arts training, group games, arts and crafts, and outdoor activities, ensuring a well-rounded and exciting week for every camper.

The martial arts summer camps are a fantastic way to keep kids active and engaged. They are designed to be a "good mix of physical activity and crafts, indoor and outdoor." This balance ensures that children are never bored and always have something new to learn or experience. The camps are also well-organized, with a lead instructor who is praised for their great communication and ability to connect with each child. Parents appreciate the flexible drop-off and pick-up times, which are a major convenience for busy schedules. The end of each week culminates in a "showcase" where campers can celebrate their progress and earn a reward, a fantastic way to build a sense of achievement and pride.

Beyond the summer camps, One With Heart Martial Arts offers a wide range of services for the entire community. Their after-school martial arts program provides a safe and structured environment for children once school is out, with a "transported after school" option for added convenience. For adults, the martial arts journey includes a variety of classes, from basic training to advanced courses in the Indonesian martial art of Pukulan Kuntao Silat. The school also provides "Women's Self Defense" and "LGBTQ+ self-defense" series, which are praised for being informative, empowering, and fun. The emphasis on being "very much more prepared to handle a terrible situation" for having taken a class shows the practical, real-world value of their training.

The atmosphere at One With Heart is intentionally crafted to be inclusive and empowering. The business identifies as both LGBTQ+ owned and women-owned, and the community is described as LGBTQ+ friendly and a "transgender safespace." This commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment is at the heart of their mission. This is a place where you can learn to defend yourself and feel "more confident walking alone," all while being part of a kind and supportive community. The instructors are passionate about teaching and committed to helping every student reach their potential, regardless of their background or personal identity.

Located at 4231 SE Hawthorne Blvd in Portland, One With Heart Martial Arts is situated in a vibrant and accessible neighborhood. Its central location makes it a convenient option for residents across the city. The school is also committed to making its space welcoming for all. Amenities include a gender-neutral restroom, a testament to their inclusive values. The school accepts credit cards and debit cards for payments, making the enrollment process straightforward for families. For those with multiple children, the availability of a family discount further demonstrates the school’s commitment to making martial arts accessible to everyone.

The services offered also include "outdoor services," which can be a delightful addition during Portland's beautiful summer months. This option provides a refreshing change of pace and a chance to train in the open air. The school’s curriculum is extensive, covering everything from "Basic Training" and "Intro Courses" to "Advanced Training," ensuring that students can continue their martial arts journey for years to come. The emphasis on practical skills like "Knife Defense" and "Self-Defense Programs" provides real-world value that students can rely on.

In summary, One With Heart Martial Arts + Self Defense is a fantastic summer camp organizer and martial arts school in Portland, Oregon. Its unique combination of expert instruction, a strong and inclusive community, and a wide range of services for all ages makes it a truly special place. The camps are well-organized and filled with a mix of physical activity and creative fun, and the core classes provide a path for lasting personal growth. It’s a space where you can feel empowered, supported, and confident in yourself.

Services Offered

• Martial Arts Summer Camps: Weekly themed camps for kids filled with martial arts, games, arts and crafts, and fun.
• After School Program: Provides a safe, transported martial arts program for kids after the school day ends.
• Women's Self-Defense: An inclusive self-defense series and workshops designed for femme individuals.
• Adult & Kids Programs: Offers a range of classes from beginner to advanced training in Pukulan Kuntao Silat.
• Specialized Training: Includes courses in fighting arts, knife defense, and strength conditioning.

Features / Highlights

• Inclusive Community: Identifies as LGBTQ+ owned and women-owned, with a welcoming atmosphere and a transgender safespace.
• Expert Instructors: The team is described as supportive, knowledgeable, and kind, creating a positive learning environment.
• Fun & Engaging Camps: Camps are a mix of physical activity, creativity, and community-building games, with a focus on fun and learning.
• Family-Friendly: Offers a family discount, making it more accessible for multiple family members to train.
• Convenient Location: Situated on Hawthorne Blvd in Portland with easy access and flexible payment options.
• Outdoor Services: Provides the option for outdoor training and activities.
• Amenities: Features a gender-neutral restroom and a standard restroom for all visitors.

Contact Information

Address: 4231 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97215, USA

Phone: (503) 231-1999

What is worth choosing

For Portland residents, choosing One With Heart Martial Arts is a decision that extends far beyond signing up for a summer camp or martial arts class. The most compelling reason to choose this organization is its deep-rooted commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering community. As an LGBTQ+ and women-owned business, it has built a reputation as a place where people of all identities feel not just accepted, but truly supported. This ethos is palpable in the classroom, where instructors are praised for their kindness and expertise, and where students feel more confident and prepared for life's challenges. The summer camps are a perfect example of this philosophy in action—they are meticulously organized and provide a perfect blend of physical activity and creative fun, ensuring children have an unforgettable and enriching summer. The flexibility of the after-school programs and the specialized self-defense classes offer practical solutions for the entire family. In an era where a sense of belonging is more important than ever, One With Heart Martial Arts stands out as a beacon of strength, purpose, and community. Choosing this business means investing in a place that will help you or your child become a more confident, capable, and empowered individual, all while being part of a supportive and respectful family.

One With Heart Martial Arts + Self Defense

4231 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97215, USA