About Us

Our Mission

Building discipline, focus, and confidence in kids.

At Safety America, our mission is to help kids thrive and grow by providing engaging and enriching programs that build discipline, focus, and confidence. From karate and ninja warrior courses to summer camps and birthday parties, we are committed to creating a safe and encouraging environment where every child can succeed. We believe in honoring people well and loving our students with genuine care and respect, fostering a culture of positivity and growth.

Our roots are deeply embedded in the Sugar Land community, where we have been proudly serving families for many years. From our humble beginnings in a small preschool classroom to expanding into a full-fledged facility with multiple locations, our commitment to the well-being of children has remained steadfast. We take pride in being a trusted partner for parents, offering programs that not only entertain but also instill valuable life skills that last a lifetime.

Our Founder

Robert Gifford has been involved in the Martial Arts since 1969. He began his studies with Sensei Michael Campos in Johnstown, New York and was promoted to First Degree Black Belt (Shodan) by Sensei Campos in 1975. In 1975, Sensei Gifford established schools in Potsdam, Ogdenburg and Massena, NY.

In 1980, he established the Houston ZDK and in 1994, he founded Safety America Martial Arts Center in Sugar Land, TX.

Sensei Gifford is an established competitor, having won over 150 awards in weapons, forms, and sparring competitions. In 1985, he was rated 3rd in weapons (Texas/Louisiana) by Karate Illustrated Magazine.

He is presently the highest ranking black belt member of the Zen Do Kai Association, 8th degree Black Belt, and is also the Southwest Representative for the organization.

Sensei Gifford also holds black belt certification in Kenpo (4th Dan) and Tae Kwon-Do (1st Dan). Sensei Gifford was the self-defense instructor for the Sugar Land – Citizens Police Academy for 10 years. He also served as a self-defense consultant for several major Houston based corporations.

Learn from the best...

  • Director – Safety America [Robert Gifford Sugar Land Karate]

  • 9th Degree Black Belt – Zen-Do Kai

  • 4th Degree Black Belt – Kenpo

  • 1st Degree Black Belt – Tae Kwon-Do

  • 50 Years Experience Martial Arts

  • ZDKMAA Southwest Representative

  • Who’s Who in Karate – 1985

  • Master Instructor Zen-Do Kai

  • Director Practical Defense Systems

  • Corporate Self-Defense Consultant (15 Companies)

  • Self Defense Instructor: Sugar Land Police D.A.R.E. Program

  • “Karate Illustrated” Rated Top (3) Weapons Competitor in Texas/Louisiana

  • Zen-Do Kai National Champion 1985 & 1986

success stories

Inspiring Journeys in Affiliate Marketing

Jessca Arow

Content Producer

Jane Cooper


Blog Writer/Creator

Cody Fisher


Digital Storyteller

Robert Fox


Online Content Editor

Valentines Day: Parents Night Out

Enjoy a well-deserved evening off while the kids (ages 4 to 13) have a blast with us!🎉

📅 When: Friday, February 14th (Valentine’s Day)

💖 Give yourself the gift of relaxation while your kids enjoy an action-packed night!

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