Dear Friends of Aikido Shobukan Dojo:

Aikido Shobukan Dojo was established in 1976 when Saotome Sensei rented half a garage from a small electronics supply business on Butternut Street. This modest space grew over the years into Sensei’s beautiful home dojo, with the attached house serving as Sensei’s home in Washington, D.C. In Aikido and the Harmony of Nature, Sensei describes an aikido dojo as a place where “the teachings of Master Morihei Ueshiba are studied… a place for uplifting and cleansing one’s body, mind, and spirit,” a place where “the correct attitude of respect, sincerity, and modesty and the proper atmosphere are essential to the learning process, and…to the safety of each individual.”

In celebration of Aikido Shobukan Dojo’s 30th anniversary next year and in recognition of the vital role of Sensei’s headquarters dojo, we are embarking on a major fundraising effort that will help ensure the structural integrity of the dojo facility for years to come. Our ability to complete needed dojo renovations will support Sensei’s vision of ASD as a leading international center for the study and practice of aikido, a world class facility where aikido practitioners from around the world can stay and train.

Saotome Sensei is constantly challenging us to take care of the dojo and each other as a part of a larger aikido community. In the same spirit, we are asking now for your support of this major campaign to complete a number of facility improvement projects estimated to cost $200,000 during a two-phased effort beginning immediately.

As an expression of personal commitment to this effort, Saotome Sensei, Patty Saotome Sensei, and current and former members of the ASD Board of Directors will match dollar-for-dollar the first $15,000 in contributions. We would also like to recognize your support and contributions in the following way:

Do(Path/Way) Calligraphy
  • Individual donations above $1000 or Dojos contributing above $2000 will be recognized as Patrons of the dojo on a commemorative plaque to be mounted in the dojo at the completion of the fundraiser. Patrons will also receive an original “Thank You” calligraphy from Saotome Sensei.
  • Donations of $200 or more will receive a signed Michi Dragon Calligraphy
  • Donations of $100 or more will receive a special edition ASD polo shirt
  • Donations of $50 or will receive a special edition ASD baseball cap

Please note that donations in any amount are greatly appreciated because each donation will move us closer to our goal. All donations are tax deductible and we will send you a tax letter upon receipt of your donation. You may also send a contribution via our website.

In closing, I hope you will consider this letter and join us in undertaking this important effort. Thank you in advance for your support.

Sincerely,
Eugene Lee, President
Aikido Shobukan Dojo

Please make donations here.