About Us Our History: Realworld was founded in April, 2002 with the goal of bringing the benefits of Aikido, Tai Chi, meditation, and other martial arts to under served communities. When most people think about martial arts they’re distracted by the violent and competitive aspects. But underneath the flash and conflict is a core of compassion, discipline, respect, and honor. We started out teaching more traditional Aikido and Tai Chi classes but the restraints the classroom and necessity of avoiding physical contact made this very difficult. Somatic Integrity grew from these early experiences and has proved successful in teaching the underlying principles without sparring or fighting. Part of the Dojo experience is feeling the support of other students, almost as an extended family. Because kids in the Foster Care system are frequently moving, we created the Gargoyle Project. This allows a small group of supporters to go with kids regardless of where they may end up. We have offered traditional self defense seminars for kids and adults and charged class fees to help raise money for our programs. As we expand we’re looking to be able to offer these classes free of charge and cultivate more reliable income streams.

Our Founder:     Angus McIntosh has an eclectic background that has informed all of our programs.  He has 20+ years of experience in the martial arts including Aikido, Tai Chi Chuan, and Kenpo.  He has worked for IBM, run bookstores, and was a certified personal trainer specializing in rebuilding body relationships.  Realworld and its programs are his passion along with motorcycles and causing trouble.

Our Board: Our Board is made up of highly skilled professionals whose contributions are greatly appreciated.  We also have an advisory council made up of therapists, social workers and educators.  Chairman of the Board:       Dorothy Lipton Board Members:     Todd Bennett               Debra McNeil     Mark Mackler     Eileen Teitle President:     Sharon McIntosh Vice President     Dale Weide Secretary     Veronica Salpao Treasurer     Lawrence Newbaum

Some Past Clients Include: Lincoln Child Center, Oakland Various Foster Children, Fresno and north Oakland Unified School District Oakland Jewish Community Services Encinal High School, Alameda South San Francisco High School Home School Association National Conference Redwood Day School, Oakland Latina Women's Health Initiative, Oakland ASUC Coop, Berkeley