SAMMA Benevolent Society: Removing Barriers to Martial Arts & Wellness
Empowering Our Community Through Scholarships & Training
Martial arts, qigong, and tai chi offer transformational benefits—from improved health and self-empowerment to a deep sense of community. But for many, financial barriers stand in the way of accessing these life-changing practices. That’s where SAMMA Benevolent Society comes in.
Founded just six months ago, this grassroots nonprofit is already making an impact by providing scholarships to individuals in North Seattle, Shoreline, and Lake City who want to embark on their martial arts journey. We connected with the team to learn more about their mission, their vision for the future, and how they’re helping people find strength, confidence, and belonging through movement.
Q&A With SAMMA Benevolent Society
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: We officially launched six months ago, and in that short time, we’ve seen incredible interest and support from our community.
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: We are a diverse community of martial artists, qigong, and tai chi students who believe that these practices should be accessible to everyone. The benefits—improved health, self-discipline, confidence, and inner peace—shouldn’t be limited to those who can afford them. That’s why we started a scholarship program to help individuals access training without financial barriers.
We are small, and just starting out, but our dreams are BIG! Our goal is to expand our ability to award more scholarships and support more individuals on their personal martial arts journeys.
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: We provide access to martial arts, qigong, and tai chi training by removing financial obstacles. But more than that, we offer a path to better health, self-empowerment, and a sense of belonging.
Through our scholarships, we’re helping people gain:
✅ Improved physical and mental well-being
✅ A stronger, more confident mindset
✅ Community support and connection
Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?
A: Shoreline is one of the most welcoming and community-focused areas in Washington. The diversity, the way neighbors and businesses support each other, and the commitment to fostering a thriving, connected community make it a truly special place.
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: We are located right on the boundary of Shoreline and North Seattle, and we serve individuals from both areas. The diverse and inclusive nature of Shoreline makes it an ideal place to grow our program and support people from all backgrounds.
Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?
A: Our scholarships and learning programs are open to ALL. There are no restrictions—if you want to learn and grow, we want to support you.
Q: What inspires you each day?
A: Helping others thrive. Seeing people gain confidence, strength, and balance through martial arts is what drives us. Every person who walks through our doors has a unique story, and being part of their journey is incredibly rewarding.
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?
A: In our first five months, we awarded scholarships to nine individuals and supported more than 32 hours of martial arts training. Seeing people who wouldn’t have otherwise had the opportunity grow, learn, and benefit from these practices has been deeply fulfilling.
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: We meet people where they are—no judgment, only support. Whether someone is brand new to martial arts or returning after years away, we create an environment where they feel comfortable and encouraged.
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?
A: Start small. Dream BIG! Shoreline is a community that values authenticity and dedication—if you’re passionate about your mission, the community will rally behind you.
Q: If you could change one thing about Shoreline, what would it be?
A: We’d love to see a stronger focus on keeping the city walkable. Increasing the space between new construction and sidewalks would allow for more trees, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and a better balance between nature, people, and cars.
Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?
A: Grow our scholarship program so we can support even more individuals in Shoreline and beyond. Our dream is to make martial arts and wellness accessible to anyone who wants to learn, regardless of financial situation.
Q: What’s your next upcoming event?
A: Our Open House is on March 22 at 11:30 AM! We’d love for the community to come meet us, learn about our programs, and see how martial arts can benefit their lives.
Q: How can our learning programs and scholarships better support our Shoreline neighbors on their life journeys?
A: We are always looking for feedback and suggestions from the community. Our goal is to ensure that we’re truly meeting the needs of those who want to learn and grow through martial arts, qigong, and tai chi.
Join Us & Be Part of Something Bigger
At SAMMA Benevolent Society, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to discover the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of martial arts. Through our scholarship program, we are breaking down barriers and helping individuals gain access to transformational training in a supportive and welcoming community.
If you or someone you know could benefit from our programs, reach out today!
📍 SAMMA Benevolent Society – 12025 Lake City Way NE, Suite B, Seattle, WA 98125
📞 206-604-0373
🌐 sammabenevolentsociety.org
📧 seattlebenevolentsociety@gmail.com
📲 @sammabenevolentsociety | Facebook
Come visit us at our Open House on March 22 at 11:30 AM and see how we can support your journey!
