Empower. Inspire. Enable.

The purpose of the Coastal Self Defense Academy (CSDA) is to provide free self defense strategies to the at-risk populations in our community. We focus on teaching mental and physical skills and proactive strategies that enhance self-esteem through self-reliance.

Who are the potentially vulnerable segments of our local community?

  • Senior Citizens
  • College Students
  • Young Children & Teens
  • People in Recovery
  • People in Shelters
  • The Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual and Transgender Community
  • People with Mental or Physical Challenges
  • Residents in Low-Income Housing

Because of perceived weaknesses, members of all of these segments of our community can be targets of abusers, muggers, rapists and bullies. CSDA offers step-by-step classes to help people learn the skills of safety awareness and defensive strategies. We focus on the strengths of the individual and the resources available to them. We emphasize skills to help them stay calm and in control so that they will feel (and be) safe in any situation. Coastal Self Defense Academy’s progressive classes will introduce the importance of body language, posture, boundary setting and awareness to the participants before going into the physical applications of self protection.

Coastal Self Defense Academy provides a series of classes ranging from 4 to 10 weeks, conducted on a weekly or bi-weekly scheduling. We are currently at the Braille Institute of Santa Barbara, Alexander Gardens Senior Assisted Living Care, St. Vincent’s Garden and we are working with Girls Inc. of Carpinteria on their Eureka! program that is held at UCSB.

Vision:  We strive to create a strong, healthy and vibrant community, comprised of confident and empowered individuals.

Mission:  Our mission is to provide transformative educational tools to promote empowerment and an enlightened recognition of one’s potential and value.

Coastal Self Defense Academy is a Registered 501(c)(3)
Federal ID Number 45-560668

Thank You to Our 2018-19 Sponsors!Our Sponsors