Business & Tech

Champion Youth Outreach Scores Readers’ Choice Award for Martial Arts Programs

MBD Martial Arts Studio also receives a strong show of support.

The winner of the 2012 Readers Choice award for best martial arts program goes to , a nonprofit that offers after-school fitness programs in many Chicago suburbs including Cicero, Des Plaines, Morton Grove, Palatine and Skokie.

Champion Youth took the title with 75 percent of the vote and a flurry of directory listing ratings, reviews and article comments. had a strong showing as well, taking in 24 percent of the vote and a number of ratings, reviews and comments as well.

Champion Youth programs include karate, dance and soccer for children from 5 to 17 years old. Its mission is to provide programs at the lowest possible cost so they are accessible to all families, regardless of income.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

In the comments section, Mitch Kazuk wrote, “I have been involved in champion youths karate program for almost 15 years now and you will not find a better place to learn. My instructors were always friendly and I consider my teacher to be one of my closest friends. The curriculum is practical and yet traditional. It is a great place to grow in body mind and spirit.”

In second place, MBD Martial Arts Studio, soon to be opening its new expanded location on Miner Street, offers classes in karate, muay thai, pankration, mixed martial arts, kickboxing and self-defense.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

MBD offers many classes for kids, as well, and hosting children’s birthday parties there is popular with customers.

Ornella Purcell wrote in the comments, “My son attends MBD and loves it. He always struggled with motor skills and coordination. Within six months he has his third belt and stronger than ever. Michelle and her instructors are awesome!”

To find out more about Champion Youth Outreach’s programs, and programs at MBD Martial Arts Studio, visit their websites.

Tune in next week when we ask readers to vote for the best Italian food. Tell us which Italian restaurants you would like to nominate for Patch's Readers' Choice award in the comment section below.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here