When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center

Why Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center, located in the vibrant Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago, offers a welcoming and empowering space for people of all identities and backgrounds to meet, move, and heal together. This trans/non-binary, queer, neurodivergent, and woman-owned center stands out as an immigrant-friendly and trans-affirming hub where safety and personal growth are priorities. The dojo specializes in Jin Sei Ryu Karate-Do™, a traditional yet evolving martial art that nurtures mind, body, and spirit development through trauma-aware and empowerment-based teaching methods, making it accessible to every body regardless of fitness level or identity. Beyond karate, the center provides a multifaceted wellness program including Shiatsu bodywork, meditation, Tai Chi, and Qigong—offered as weekly classes and workshops open to beginners. These wellness offerings encourage relaxation, healing, and mindful presence in a thoughtful environment. Operated by skilled practitioners Amy and Kyren, both black belts with professional licenses in social work and massage therapy respectively, Culture of Safety integrates expertise with care and intentionality. Whether meeting friends for a class or attending a healing session, guests enjoy a supportive atmosphere focused on connection, resilience, and safety.
Here's what people think of Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center
As of recent, Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center holds a 5-star rating based on 28 reviews.
User reviews for Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center consistently praise the center for its thoughtful, supportive, and knowledgeable staff. Many reviewers highlight Kyren's expertise in Shiatsu and bodywork, noting their ability to create a safe and comfortable space—even for those who have previously struggled with receiving bodywork. Clients frequently mention exceeding expectations and feeling deeply cared for after sessions. Positive aspects repeatedly noted include the center's intentionality around care, detailed attention during treatments, and a genuinely welcoming environment for all identities, especially LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities. On the other hand, there are no recorded negative reviews, which underscores the high satisfaction and trust clients place in this center. Overall, the reviews emphasize Culture of Safety as a nurturing and professional wellness destination where empowerment, healing, and community intersect effectively, making it a reliable and inclusive place to improve physical and emotional well-being.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Emily Fundis
This place is such a hidden gem here in Rogers Park!! I can’t recommend this dojo enough, both for kids and adults. Sensei Amy and senpai Kyren have created such a welcoming and inclusive space, and there is a wonderful community of students ready to support you when you first start out. It was very easy to get acclimated as a new white belt (in their adult classes), especially because the class sizes are intimate and you get a lot of personal attention and coaching. Their teaching style really helps you develop confidence in your form and technique. Coming here is one of my favorite things I look forward to every week!
Lindsey Fox
My 5-year-old daughter has been taking karate classes at Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center in Rogers Park, Chicago for the past few months and absolutely loves it! The martial arts classes held in this woman and queer-owned community space are focused on empowering kids through discipline, goal-setting, and conflict resolution. My daughter looks forward to her biweekly classes where the attentive instructors teach karate skills while promoting confidence, self-esteem, and using your voice as power. She is learning so much about respect and social skills in the caring dojo environment. I highly recommend these kids karate classes to any parent looking to enroll their child in a program that teaches martial arts skills alongside valuable life lessons that build character and encourage positive behavior. The community feel of this Rogers Park karate studio provides a safe, welcoming space for kids to grow.
Xan Flink
Our kids love the day camps and weekly spring break and summer camps! They always have a great time, the instructors are really kind, attentive, and supportive of our kids. Its feels so great to have a business like this in the neighborhood!
Rachel Altork
As a beginner to karate, I am blown away by this space! I was nervous to start but from the moment I walked in, the teachers were encouraging and some of the most amazing teachers I have ever had the pleasure of learning from. They never made me feel nervous and I have been excited to come in for every class as a result. Its such a great community and the focus is on doing your personal best, never on competition. If you want a gentle introduction to karate and at the same time want challenges that meet you where you are at, if you want a community that is non judgemental and helps you gain physical and mental defense techniques, then I cannot recommend this place enough.
Betsy Williams
I highly recommend Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center. Both of my children take lessons and I am impressed with both how well they are learning karate as well as how they are being taught. Sensai Amy and Senpai Kyren are thoughtful, caring teachers who masterfully balance the blend of levels within the class as well as the needs of individual students. If you are looking for excellent karate instruction in a safe, inclusive space, Culture of Safety is for you.
How to reach Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center
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Why Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center offers an enriching experience far beyond typical meetup venues. This unique community space in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood combines martial arts, wellness, and empowerment training, creating a vibrant environment where personal growth and camaraderie flourish. When you bring your group here, you’re not just signing up for activities—you join a trans-affirming, queer-friendly, neurodivergent-supportive sanctuary that embraces diversity and inclusion with open arms. The dojo’s leadership, composed of skilled black belts who are also licensed social workers and massage therapists, ensures everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered. This supportive atmosphere sparks confidence and connection among participants, making your meetup deeply meaningful. Whether your group seeks physical activity, mental wellness, or both, Culture of Safety provides an accessible, welcoming space that encourages everyone to develop strength, coordination, and mindfulness together. It’s a perfect setting to bond over shared goals of self-defense, wellness, and community care, making each meetup an opportunity to empower yourself and your friends collectively.
What activities does Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center offer?
Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center offers a rich variety of classes and wellness services designed to suit all levels and interests, making it an ideal place for group gatherings. The cornerstone is Jin Sei Ryu Karate-Do™, a traditional karate style adapted for today’s world, focusing on physical strength, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. Classes cater to all ages and body types, emphasizing empowerment, trauma-awareness, and inclusivity. Beyond karate, the center provides short-term self-defense and empowerment training sessions, helping participants build confidence and practical skills in a supportive environment. For those seeking relaxation and healing, Culture of Safety offers Shiatsu massage therapy, known for its deep tissue work and stress relief, administered by experienced practitioners who prioritize safety and client comfort. The center also hosts meditation and qigong classes, which cultivate mindfulness, emotional resilience, and balance. This diverse lineup allows groups to pick activities based on their preferences—whether it’s a dynamic karate class to energize the body or a calming meditation session to nurture the mind and soul—making it perfect for multi-faceted meetups.
Why is Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center perfect for hosting group meetups?
Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center’s welcoming and affirming environment makes it especially well-suited for group events. The center is woman-owned and led, and explicitly supportive of trans, queer, and neurodivergent communities, creating a safe space where every individual feels valued and heard. This ethos fosters a unique sense of solidarity and mutual respect among participants, which can enhance group bonding and collective empowerment during meetups. Its location in the vibrant Rogers Park area of Chicago adds cultural richness and accessibility, drawing a diverse community that supports inclusiveness. The expert instructors, both black belts and licensed professionals in mental health and massage therapy, ensure every group member receives individualized attention and guidance, further enriching the shared experience. Additionally, the dojo’s scheduling flexibility, with offerings on multiple days and times during the week, provides convenience for organizing group activities around busy calendars. This thoughtful blend of expert programming, safety, and inclusivity makes it a welcoming hub ideal for friends or families looking to connect, grow, and have meaningful fun together.
How do the karate classes promote group empowerment?
The karate program at Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center is grounded in Jin Sei Ryu Karate-Do™, which means “profound reflections for growth,” underscoring its focus on holistic development. The classes go beyond physical moves to help students cultivate mental and emotional resilience, confidence, and a sense of inner peace. This approach reflects an empowerment lens that prioritizes trauma-awareness, making the classes especially accommodating to people from varied backgrounds and life experiences. For groups, this creates a shared journey of overcoming personal challenges and celebrating progress, strengthening friendships through collective achievement. The instruction is tailored to embrace all bodies and skill levels, ensuring no one is left behind. Regular promotion tests allow group members to set goals and witness each other’s growth, building mutual motivation and support networks. This comprehensive, community-oriented model nurtures personal empowerment and solidarity, turning each session into a transformative group experience.
What wellness offerings complement the physical activities and why are they beneficial for groups?
Alongside martial arts and self-defense, Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center offers specialized wellness sessions including Shiatsu massage, meditation, and qigong, which enhance the physical and mental benefits of karate training. Shiatsu massage by licensed massage therapists like Kyren provides deep, mindful bodywork that relieves tension, improves circulation, and promotes overall well-being. Participants consistently praise the detailed attention and safe atmosphere during these sessions, making them ideal to refresh and recover after active classes. Meditation and qigong classes bring an additional focus on mindfulness and breath control, helping groups cultivate calm, stress reduction, and emotional balance together. Sharing these wellness practices strengthens group cohesion by fostering collective relaxation and self-care. For meetups, this holistic blend of activity and restorative care supports balanced health, ensuring every group member feels nurtured physically and emotionally throughout their time at the center.
What makes Culture of Safety a uniquely inclusive and community-focused space?
Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center actively cultivates an inclusive and affirming culture that distinguishes it from many traditional martial arts schools or wellness centers. It is specifically identified as trans-affirming, queer-friendly, neurodivergent-supportive, and immigrant-friendly, explicitly welcoming people regardless of immigration status or gender identity. The center openly states that it does not cooperate with ICE, signaling strong social justice commitments to marginalized communities. Leadership by women and non-binary individuals who are experienced martial artists and licensed health professionals reflects a deep understanding of intersectionality and trauma-informed care. This creates an environment where all participants—especially those who might feel excluded elsewhere—can thrive, learn, and connect without fear or judgment. For groups, choosing this center means endorsing a space that values dignity, respect, and community resilience, making their gathering not just enjoyable but socially meaningful.
What is the practical information for planning your meetup at Culture of Safety?
Located at 6961 N Clark St in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center maintains hours Tuesday through Friday, opening as early as 9:30 AM and closing as late as 8:45 PM on select days, with weekends closed. Such availability offers flexibility to schedule group meetups that work around different lifestyles and commitments. The center provides schedules and class updates online, including a Google calendar and Remind text notifications, making coordination easy and reliable. Promotion test days and class formats cater to diverse ages and levels, with special provisions for youth, teens, and adults, accommodating groups with mixed-age participants. Booking for wellness services such as Shiatsu massage can be arranged in advance, ensuring your group’s preferences are met. This combination of thoughtfully structured programming, clear communication channels, and responsive staff support means your group’s meetup can be seamlessly planned and tailored to everyone’s needs.
How can a group benefit socially and personally from meeting at Culture of Safety?
Meeting at Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center offers profound social and personal benefits for any group. Socially, the dojo’s inclusive environment fosters trust, respect, and a sense of belonging, strengthening bonds through shared experiences of learning, empowerment, and wellness practices. Group members support each other’s physical and emotional growth, creating lasting connections based on mutual encouragement. Personally, individuals gain valuable skills in self-defense, mindfulness, and body awareness, lifting confidence and resilience. The practice of traditional martial arts combined with trauma-informed teaching provides unique opportunities for overcoming fears and discovering new strengths together. Wellness offerings like massage and meditation help individuals address stress and promote balance in daily life, benefits that extend beyond the dojo walls. Altogether, these experiences cultivate a healthier and more compassionate group dynamic, enriching friendships and family ties while nurturing individual well-being.