BOSTON (Allston), Mass., May 4, 2009 — Karate students from Boston's Emerald Necklace Martial Arts (www.karateinboston.com) have successfully raised over $2,800 for Project Bread, a nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating, preventing, and ultimately ending hunger in Massachusetts. On Sunday, May 3, students from the karate school also participated in Project Bread’s "Walk for Hunger," a 20-mile walk that winds its way through Boston and its surrounding towns.

To demonstrate their character and leadership ability, and as part of their Black Belt training, the advanced-level students at Emerald Necklace Martial Arts are required to organize and lead community service activities. However, it was Claudine Kavanagh, a beginner-level karate student at the dojo (karate school), who organized the fund drive and walking team for the dojo.

"Claudine has only been training with us for a very short time, but all the credit for the wonderful success of this project goes to her," says Sensei Jason Gould, Dojo Director and Chief Instructor. "By taking on this project and collaborating with others to reach out to help those in need, she has certainly demonstrated the Black-Belt level initiative, leadership, enthusiasm, and compassion that are at the heart of our training."

Money raised through The Walk for Hunger funds more than 400 food pantries, soup kitchens, food banks, and food salvage programs in 128 communities across the state. The dojo is hoping to double the $1,500 they raised for project bread back in 2005. Anyone wishing to contribute to the school's effort can visit their team's donation page at http://www.projectbread.org/site/TR/Walk/General?team_id=41360&pg=team&fr_id=1110 .

More information about Emerald Necklace Martial Arts can be found online at www.karateinboston.com.

More information about Project Bread and the Walk for Hunger can be found online at www.projectbread.org.