Building stronger kids.

Building stronger communities.

Island Martial Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit using martial arts to help children build the character, confidence, discipline and respect they need to succeed inside and outside the dojo.

Confidence. Discipline. Respect.

Our

Mission

More than a martial arts school

Strong skills matter. Strong people matter more.

At Island Martial Arts, our mission goes beyond teaching martial arts. We use training as a tool to build confidence, discipline, respect, resilience, and the ability to face life’s challenges with strength.

For children, that means learning how to avoid conflict, stand up for themselves, protect others, and grow into confident, capable young people in a safe and supportive environment, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.

For women who have experienced domestic abuse, it means providing a welcoming and empowering space to develop practical self-defense skills, rebuild confidence, strengthen their sense of safety, and reclaim independence.

Through martial arts, mentorship, and community support, we help people become stronger, safer, and more confident versions of themselves.

What we teach

Lessons that carry far beyond the dojo.

Every session is an opportunity to help a child become stronger, more capable and more confident — not just as a martial artist, but as a person.

Confidence

Children learn to believe in themselves, overcome challenges, and develop the confidence to stand up to bullying and intimidation.

Discipline

Martial arts teaches children that achievement comes through commitment, patience, practice and perseverance.

Respect

Students learn respect for themselves, their instructors, classmates, their families and their community.

Self-Defense

Children learn age-appropriate skills for recognizing dangerous situations, avoiding confrontation, and defending themselves when necessary.

Character

The most important victories aren’t won in competition — they’re won by becoming a better person.

Community in action

Built to show up where the community already is.

Rather than centering the site around individual class bookings, this concept gives Island Martial Arts a home for partner events, community classes, youth outreach and the stories that come from them.

Youth Programming

Community Classes

Accessible martial arts experiences focused on confidence, character and fun — hosted with community partners.

Partnerships

Partner Events

Demonstrations, youth events and special programs created alongside schools, nonprofits and local organizations.

Beyond the Dojo

Community Outings

Experiences that reinforce teamwork, leadership, confidence and a sense of belonging.

Storytelling

Recent Highlights

A flexible place to showcase photos, recaps and the impact of each community collaboration.

Concept note: these community tiles are designed to be replaced with real outing and event photography as Island Martial Arts builds its photo library.

Learn from experience instructors

Decades of experience. A passion for teaching.

The flyer introduces a leadership team with deep martial arts backgrounds across Kenpo Karate, competition and Jiu-Jitsu.

Richard Berlinsky

Lead Instructor

5th Degree Black Belt · Kenpo Karate · Member of The National Association Of Realtors Safety Advisory Committee

Trained in martial arts for over 25 years and brings long-term experience to the Island Martial Arts community.

Shihan Dennis Molloy

Senior Instructor

8th Degree Black Belt · Kenpo Karate
Three-Time Heavyweight World Champion

Brings decades of martial arts experience and championship-level knowledge to Island Martial Arts.

Joe Gelineau

Instructor

7th Degree Black Belt · Kenpo Karate
3rd Degree Black Belt · Jiu-Jitsu

Brings extensive striking and grappling experience, giving students exposure to practical self-defense from multiple angles.

Jacquelyn Fede, PhD

Instructor

Trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for self defense for three years
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu certified instructor since 2024

Specializes in teaching kids and all people who identify as womenA developmental psychologist working in special education for seven years

More than a martial arts school.

Whether a child eventually becomes a competitive martial artist or simply carries these lessons into school, work, family and life, the ultimate goal is the same: helping them become the best version of themselves.

What we want every child to leave with

Confidence they can carry into everyday life.

Every session is an opportunity to help a child become stronger, more capable and more confident — not just as a martial artist, but as a person.

Confidence

Discipline

Respect

Self-control

Resilience

Bring Island Martial Arts to your community

Let’s create something meaningful together.

Schools, youth organizations, nonprofits and community groups can use this section to start a conversation about classes, demonstrations, outreach events or collaborative programming.