In the spring of 2006, I took a self-defense workshop with IMPACT Bay Area. As I expected, I learned physical and verbal boundary-setting skills that helped me feel more secure walking around the city alone, and better prepared to handle adverse interactions. More than that, however, I developed an appreciation for the sense of empowerment and strength that could come from just three days within a supportive, tight-knit group of women. I gained in that workshop a thirst for opportunities to be vulnerable and share something of myself with others - to seek out, build, and exist in these safe spaces - that carried through into the activities and experiences I chose to engage with throughout the following years. Now, I’m reaching out to you to help me share this experience with others, to work toward a world in which everyone can feel safe in their own space.

IMPACT Bay Area believes that personal safety is a right, not a privilege. Our mission is to reduce violence and promote healing by teaching effective boundary setting, personal safety, and physical self-defense skills to women, teens and members of the LGBTQ community. 100% of our students report that they feel significantly better able to deal with an attack after taking our classes. We do not turn anyone away regardless of their financial situation.

If you are able, please help us serve our Bay Area community through these challenging times. We're a small organization and any amount makes a big difference. Click the orange “DONATE" button in the upper right corner to contribute.

Erica