Submitted by US Martial Arts Center
Four Washington companies have been chosen as recipients of the 2016 Corporations for Communities Award, which honors exceptional Washington businesses that make it a priority to help their communities.
The four businesses include Kent-based Sleep Train, Bellvue-based Republic Services and Birch Equipment out of Bellingham. Olympia’s own US Martial Arts Center was included as a winner in the small-company category.
Secretary of State Kim Wyman presented US Martial Arts Center a National Association of Secretaries of State Medallion Award at a ceremony in her office on November 15. The Medallion Award recognizes civic engagement, voter education efforts, government services and a commitment to giving back to the community.
“Our state is fortunate to have so many companies that give back to their communities in tangible ways,” Wyman said. “I look forward to honoring several of these caring and compassionate corporations that make a difference.”
US Martial Arts Center was nominated for raising about $75,000 at the annual Board Break-A-Thon to support the Olympia and North Thurston Education Foundation, and providing complimentary programs on fitness, bully awareness and active shooter safety to schools.
Employees volunteer at local events like the Lacey Spring Fun Fair and Lakefair Kids Day by providing free lessons. The center also requires that those seeking a Black Belt volunteer at the Thurston Food Bank to qualify for Black Belt testing.
Corporations for Communities is an annual recognition program within the Secretary of State’s Corporations and Charities Division.
