Tai Chi Youth programs utilize Yang Tai Chi and Northern Shaolin Kung Fu to develop the mind and bodies of students from age 8 to 80. With our primary focus and development from a maximum security prison program, and several rehabilitation centers for teens, TCY founder, Richard Del Connor "Buddha Zhen," created the 3-year Tai Chi Youth curriculum in 1994. With the launch of Tai Chi Youth as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1996, TCY programs were taught in after-school programs at public schools, churches, and continuing education programs. The original TCY Mission of reducing violence by improving health and well-being has been proven. The TCY Mission now includes curing many physical disorders and mental maladies while eliminating obesity and developing better teamwork and leadership skills in our students.