The Azrieli Foundation is proud to support the Toronto launch of Kids Kicking Cancer | Heroes Circle Canada (KKC), an organization dedicated to lowering the pain of children through the practice of martial arts therapy. Founded in 1999, KKC empowers over 10,000 children across ten countries. Through breath work, meditation, and traditional karate movements, children gain both tools for pain management and a renewed sense of purpose as they teach these methods to others.
On September 18, 2025, the Toronto community gathered at the Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre to celebrate the long-awaited establishment of KKC’s local chapter. The event began with remarks from Jill Osborne, National Executive Director, as well as supporting partners. Rabbi Elimelech Goldberg, KKC’s founder, then took the stage and shared the deeply personal story that inspired him to create the program. His first daughter was diagnosed with leukemia just days before her first birthday and passed away at the age of two. “I wanted to transform my pain into something that would help other children,” he explained.
Rabbi Goldberg described the science behind the MATIO Method, which uses breath and movement to help children manage pain, and he illustrated its impact with remarkable stories. He recounted hospital visits to wounded soldiers who were inspired by children with cancer to learn how to do the martial arts therapy. He also recalled a non-verbal autistic child who, after learning the method, mouthed the words “power, peace, purpose” for the first time while in the midst of an awful meltdown, calming the child. Reflecting on these moments, Rabbi Goldberg told the audience, “It’s not about just including, it’s about elevating…We turn victims into victors.”
The audience was then treated to a moving demonstration by four young participants, accompanied by Rabbi Goldberg and KKC instructors. Together, they showcased the Heroes Circle Martial Arts method, using breath and movement to channel strength. Their kiais—“joining of spirit and energy”—echoed throughout the room as they recited the organization’s mantra: breathe in the light and blow out the darkness. The performance offered a glimpse into the transformative power of the program, inspiring all who were present.
Among those deeply touched by the work of KKC is long-time volunteer and instructor Mark Santoro, a former competitive martial artist. When he stepped away from competition, he remembers feeling adrift. “I felt like I lost my identity,” he recalls. That sense of loss stayed with him until he was introduced to KKC, reconnecting him with his passion for martial arts and giving him a new purpose. “KKC really saved my life,” he shared. Encouraged by former coaches already involved with the program, Santoro found a natural home as an instructor, where he could use his skills to empower children and support their families. Today, he describes each class as a reminder of resilience and hope, a chance to witness young people grow stronger and to give back to something bigger than himself. “The Azrieli Foundation is honoured to support the launch of Kids Kicking Cancer in Toronto,” said Emmanuelle Fontaine, Grant Manager at the Azrieli Foundation. “This partnership reflects our commitment to organizations that empower individuals and strengthen communities. We look forward to seeing the meaningful impact KKC will have on children and families across the city.”
