Martial Art, Social Art Project

The Martial Art, Social Art Project seeks to assist in the development of individuality, self-esteem, the development of the ability to perform critical analysis and athletic ability through martial arts. The project has been in operation in the Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Area since 1997 and is directed towards promoting the social inclusion of at-risk children and adolescents. The program currently includes 600 children and adolescents who are at risk of becoming involved with drugs and violence. The project is coordinated by ABAMI - the Brazilian Multistyle Martial Arts Association, in partnership with the Cemig Asin Project (employees of the Igarapé Thermal Electric Plant), Escuderia Le Coq, Petrobrás, Gaja, the Francelinos Social Center, the Dona Preta Foundation and the Boa Vista Social Center.