Empty Hand Open Heart

Empowering Survivors Through Self-Defense, Healing, and Hope

Empty Hand, Open Heart is a North Texas nonprofit dedicated to equipping survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking with the tools to reclaim their power—body, mind, and spirit.

Founded and led by world champion martial artist and fifth-degree black belt Tracy Dickey, our organization brings trauma-informed self-defense and karate training directly to women and children in shelters, transitional homes, and recovery programs across the Dallas–Fort Worth area. We also provide ongoing classes and support in our Plano-based studio, where survivors can build strength, resilience, and community in a safe and affirming environment.

Since our founding, we’ve served over 2,556 survivors and families—empowering each one through skills that foster confidence, boundaries, and healing after abuse. We’ve also contributed more than 1,000 volunteer hours, thanks to our all-volunteer staff and board who serve with humility, passion, and faith.

Whether we’re outfitting a newly free survivor with her first uniform, showing a young mother how to defend herself and her children, or partnering with shelters, schools, and law enforcement—we believe real safety begins with dignity. Through every kick, kata, and conversation, we remind survivors: you are strong, you are not alone, and you are worthy of protection.

Our work is grounded in community partnerships, including the Plano Police Department, Plano Chamber of Commerce, and First United Bank. We also offer anti-bullying programming to children in low-income neighborhoods, helping prevent cycles of violence before they begin.

Every dollar raised helps us provide free training, uniforms, outreach materials, home safety kits, and specialized protective gear to ensure survivors receive the same quality instruction as anyone walking into a karate dojo—with dignity, not pity.

Healing happens through love, faith, and action. Join us as we open hearts and strengthen hands—one survivor at a time.