Mastery Martial Arts students, family members, and instructors held a toy drive and participated in Wreaths Across America as a part of a volunteer initiative this holiday season.

Mastery collected more than 1,200 toys for children in need across Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. Donation bins were placed in all six Mastery locations in Cumberland, East Greenwich, Johnston, Smithfield, Warwick, and North Attleboro. Mastery also collaborated with local fire and police departments, as well as the Happy Basket Program of Cumberland to deliver holiday cheer across the Ocean State. The team held a collection party on December 9 to culminate the toy drive and to celebrate those who volunteered their time to gather up toys in their communities.

“Being a part of these charitable events helps our students learn the true meaning of the holiday spirit,” Anthony Pezzillo, partner at Mastery Martial Arts said in a release. “It teaches students how they can make a positive impact on someone’s life at a young age.”

 Mastery students, family members, and instructors also participated in Wreaths Across America Day on December 17 at the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery. The annual ceremony is held across the nation to remember the fallen, honor those who served, and teach future generations about the sacrifices made to preserve our freedoms. Several war veterans spoke about their experience on the battlefield and shared how to help veterans and their families this holiday season. The Color Guard posted the colors to conclude the ceremony before families placed wreaths on veterans’ headstones. As wreaths were laid upon each headstone, everyone was encouraged to say the name of that veteran, reflect on their life, and thank them for their service. “These events have shifted our students’ and parents’ mindset from expecting to receive to wanting to give back,” said Pezzillo.

“Participating in these events not only brings us together as martial arts students, but it also brings us all closer to our towns and communities.” The Mastery volunteer program continues to gain momentum each year and the team looks forward to making an even bigger impact in 2023. These volunteer efforts align with Mastery’s mission to teach children self-discipline, hard work, confidence, and respect, while promoting health and fitness.