About Us

Our Story



Every child deserves a champion
The Satori Foundation was born from a simple yet powerful belief: when we invest in our youth, we transform entire communities. Founded in 2022 by martial arts leader Dave Kovar, our organization emerged from decades of witnessing firsthand how martial arts training builds more than physical strength—it builds character, confidence, and resilience.
What started as the "Done With Bullying" movement, reaching over 1,100 martial arts schools globally, has evolved into something deeper. We recognized that bullying is often a symptom of larger challenges facing today's youth: lack of mentorship, unstable home environments, and limited opportunities to develop leadership skills.
Today, the Satori Foundation focuses on three core pillars: Leadership development, Mentorship programs, and Self-defense training. We partner with schools, community organizations, and martial arts academies to reach at-risk youth who need us most—kids from single-parent homes, those struggling academically, and young people who simply need someone to believe in them.
Our name "Satori" represents a moment of sudden enlightenment—that breakthrough when a young person realizes their own potential. Every day, we work to create those moments.
Our Board of Directors

Founder & Executive Director
Dave is a lifelong martial arts professional whose vision for youth empowerment through martial arts principles led to the creation of Satori Foundation and its life-changing programs. With over 35 years of experience in youth development and anti-bullying advocacy, Dave founded the original "Martial Artists Against Bullying" program that reached over 1,000 schools worldwide. His previous "School Safe/Street Safe" program was taught in over 1,000 martial arts schools globally, establishing him as a leader in character-based education. Dave's deep belief that martial arts principles can transform young lives drives his commitment to using martial arts as a vehicle for building confidence, discipline, and character in at-risk youth, making him the visionary force behind Satori Foundation's mission.

Executive Director
Larry brings passion and proven experience in youth development and community service to lead Satori Foundation's mission of empowering at-risk youth. His extensive background includes seven years with Big Brothers Big Sisters as both mentor and fundraising chairperson, where he witnessed first hand the transformative power of adult mentorship in young lives. Larry also served five years as a Board Member for Maidu Little League, advocating for youth sports and character development through athletics. With over 35 years of operational and leadership expertise in management roles, Larry combines professional acumen with genuine dedication to making a positive impact on young lives through mentorship and community programs, positioning him perfectly to guide Satori Foundation's day-to-day operations and program expansion.

Board Member & Co-Founder
Dave is a seasoned executive who helped found Satori Foundation as a way to highlight the transformative power of martial arts and give back to the community. As CEO of Kovars Inc. since 2006, Dave works alongside Hanshi Dave Kovar to build successful programs and serve students and clients. His impressive corporate background includes executive positions at Gateway Computer, Novell, and IBM, plus CEO roles at two venture-funded technology companies. Dave's personal martial arts journey began in 2002 at Kovars, where he achieved the rank of 3rd degree Black Belt, experiencing firsthand the character-building power of martial arts training. An accomplished athlete who has completed multiple ultra-marathons including the Western States 100, Dave also enjoys cycling, hiking, and creative writing as a published novelist and short story writer, living in Roseville, CA with his wife Colleen.

Treasurer
Sarah combines financial expertise with deep passion for youth development, bringing both professional credentials and hands-on experience working with children and teens. Her educational foundation includes a Bachelor's in Psychology from Sacramento State and an AA in Business and Accounting, while currently pursuing CPA candidacy to strengthen her financial management capabilities. Sarah's youth service experience spans working as a home health aide supporting children with disabilities and serving as an Assistant Lacrosse Coach, giving her direct insight into the challenges and potential of young people facing obstacles. Her community involvement includes active volunteering in Sunday school, VBS, and AWANA children's programs, while personally mentoring 10 nieces and nephews. Sarah's lifelong passion for learning, creativity, and authenticity drives her dedication to fostering growth, resilience, and confidence in youth of all ages, from preschoolers to teens.

Our Impact
By the Numbers
1,100+
martial arts schools previously engaged in anti-bullying initiatives
$23,000+
raised in initial community fundraising events
Sacramento region
primary service area with plans for expansion
What the Statistics Tell Us
90%
of students in grades 4-8 report being harassed or bullied
57%
of the time bullying of kids ages 6-12 stops within 10 seconds when a bystander intervenes
55%
Children with mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college
46%
Youth in mentorship programs show 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs
Real Stories, Real Impact
“It is awesome to be able to provide my child with more tools to be prepared in life both physically and mentally.”
Ryan C.
“Not only my son is learning martial arts, he has become more disciplined and his self-confidence has increased. And his anxiety level is much lower than before.”
Mahya B.
“This place in particular has the structure that will definitely build your child’s confidence.”
Gillman & Jessica Chan
“We love not only the martial arts training but also all the discussions on life skills, like how to show respect to your friends and family, how to handle a situation with a bully, etc.”
Alicia Scholer
“Not only my son is learning martial arts, he has become more disciplined and his self-confidence has increased. And his anxiety level is much lower than before.”
Mahya B.
“One of my children had a bully situation at school for several years… my son was able to block the attacks and get away. He stood up to the bully, and the bully is no longer an issue. This was worth every minute & dollar we spent at Kovars…”
J D.
“They learn so much; self defense of course, but nutrition, honor, how to avoid bullying, how to avoid predators, etc.”
Steve F.
“We love not only the martial arts training but also all the discussions on life skills, like how to show respect to your friends and family, how to handle a situation with a bully, etc.”
Alicia Scholer

Partner Organizations
By the Numbers
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Corporate & Community Supporters


Interested in Becoming a Partner?
We're always looking for organizations that share our commitment to youth empowerment.
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