Established in 2004, Ishi Dojo Youth Center is a 501C3 non-profit organization. It was created by two individuals who care about the future of children and decided to put their personal resources to a safe and fun place for children to learn the basics of a more productive and healthy lifestyle. The Ishi Dojo program currently serves approximately 50 boys and girls ages 6-18.

David L. Piccoli, II, President and CEO of Smart Management, Inc. and Discovery House, provided the seed money for the venture. Brian McDonough, a national martial arts champion and physical trainer, brought the expertise to establish programs for the center. Together they worked to find, furnish and staff the site.

The Center offers monthly fees on a sliding scale, with several scholarships so that the greatest amount of kids can participate. The programs run from Monday to Saturday, and each child participates in all aspects of the program so that he or she receives not only physical fitness training, but also nutrition education, tutoring, dance, and theater.

The Center holds two major fund-raising events each year: a golf tournament and a Summer Solstice event with silent and live auctions. Ishi Dojo seeks individuals and corporations to help fund programs with a general donation to the Center, sponsor a child(ren) or fund specific needs such as robes, belts and patches.

The volunteer board of directors includes professionals with a cross-section of skills and an interest in the community. They include: Chairman, Michael Raspallo, CLU, ChFC Corner Office Financial, Steven E. Monacelli, CPA, Restivo & Wisehart, LLP, Dr. Gary Brodeur, Brodeur Family Chiropractic Services, Sandra R. Cooney, Sandra Cooney Public Relations; Stephen Mackie, Esq., David L. Piccoli, II, Smart Management, Inc., John Silva, Sovereign Bank.