A Vision of Healing and Empowerment

The Verite Foundation was born from a passion for martial arts and a commitment to serve those in need. Founded by Chris Tricoli, a martial arts expert and dedicated mentor, our organization bridges the gap between physical training and emotional recovery. By leveraging martial arts as a tool for healing, we help individuals reclaim strength, confidence, and community.

The Verite Foundation
The Verite Foundation

Meet Our Founder: Chris Tricoli

Chris Tricoli has been a cornerstone of the martial arts community since 1995, sharing his expertise and creating impactful programs. His credentials include:

  • 5th Degree Black Belt in Hapkido
  • 4th Degree Black Belt in Judo
  • Certified Muay Thai Kru
  • 2nd Degree Professor Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
  • 6th Degree Black Belt in Japanese Ju-Jitsu
  • 5th Degree Black Belt in Chinese Martial Arts

Leading the Way

As a seasoned instructor, business owner, and founder of initiatives like Small Circle Hapkido and the "Built for Combat Knife Fighting Series," Chris’s work has produced accomplished instructors and coaches nationwide. He has also coached internationally, furthering his mission to share the life-changing benefits of martial arts.

Our Legacy

Chris’s passion for teaching extends to his leadership at The Verite Foundation, where he continues to guide and inspire. His philosophy is simple yet profound: “Giving back is as fulfilling as everything martial arts has given me.” At The Verite Foundation, we carry forward this vision, helping individuals discover strength and resilience through martial arts.

Our Leadership Team

The foundation’s success is built on a dedicated leadership team, each contributing unique expertise:

The Verite Foundation

William Barrett Powell

Chairman

Coming Soon!

 
 
 
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The Verite Foundation

Kerry Hutchins

Board Member

Coming Soon!

 
 
 
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The Verite Foundation

Joni C.

Program Director/Board member

downtown Raleigh, North Carolina

Joni C. is a highly skilled and dedicated martial arts instructor based in Downtown Raleigh NC with the Verite Foundation, Joni has honed her expertise in various disciplines of martial arts with a passion that spans over two decades.

Joni holds a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Hapkido, a testament to her dedication and mastery of this dynamic Korean martial art. She holds a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, showcasing her proficiency in ground fighting and submission techniques. Her commitment to continuous improvement and her students' success is evident in her achievements and teaching style.

In addition to her belts, Joni has also earned instructor certifications under the esteemed Master Tricoli. These certifications include specialized training in self-defense and combat knife fighting techniques, further enhancing her ability to provide comprehensive and practical martial arts education.

At the Verite Foundation, Joni is known for her ability to inspire and motivate her students. Her teaching is deeply rooted in the transformative power of martial arts, particularly for individuals dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  She is committed to helping her students develop confidence, discipline, and resilience, both on and off the mat. She believes that martial arts is not just a means of self-defense but also a tool for personal growth and empowerment in the healing path.

For more information or train with Joni C, please contact the Verite Foundation at (919) 917-2464.

 
 
 
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The Verite Foundation

Chris Tricoli

Program Ambassador

North Raleigh,
North Carolina

Program Ambassador

Chris Tricoli has been a cornerstone of the martial arts community since 1995, sharing his expertise and creating impactful programs. His credentials include:

  • 5th Degree Black Belt in Hapkido
  • 4th Degree Black Belt in Judo
  • Certified Muay Thai Kru
  • 2nd Degree Professor Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
  • 6th Degree Black Belt in Japanese Ju-Jitsu
  • 5th Degree Black Belt in Chinese Martial Arts
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Erick Swanson – Master Small Circle Hapkido Instructor

Erick has dedicated over 20 years to martial arts, earning a 3rd degree black belt in Small Circle Hapkido, black belt rankings in Judo and Aiki-Jujutsu, and a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He is also a master knife-fighting instructor and a skilled advocate in cane and small weapons training. Passionate about teaching, Erick has shared his expertise at martial arts schools in Raleigh and with various non-profit organizations throughout North Carolina.

The Verite Foundation

Erick Swanson

Master Instructor in Garner, North Carolina

 

Erick has dedicated over 20 years to martial arts, earning a 3rd degree black belt in Small Circle Hapkido, black belt rankings in Judo and Aiki-Jujutsu, and a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He is also a master knife-fighting instructor and a skilled advocate in cane and small weapons training. Passionate about teaching, Erick has shared his expertise at martial arts schools in Raleigh and with various non-profit organizations throughout North Carolina.

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A woman standing in front of a small circle hapkido logo.

Angela Delp Truitt

Director of Operation Kernersville, North Carolina

 
 
Professional Dance Instructor for 13 yrs
1 rst Degree Black Belt Hapkido
Artist and Painter 
Survivalist and Camp Instructor
International Trainer
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The Verite Foundation

Professor Tim Haun

Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor in Gastonia, North Carolina

Coming Soon!

 
 
 
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A man in black and red shirt standing next to building.

Professor Ray Simpson

BJJ Instructor in Burlington, North Carolina

 

Started Martial Arts at age 6 yrs old

Started Bjj in 1997  27 yrs
Along the journey 
Boxing , Muay Thai. 
 
International competitor 2004 through 2006
 
1rst Degree  Professor Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 
 
Founder of The Chop Shop in Burlington Nc
 
Founder of 753 Gear and other clothing brands. 
 
Military Combatives Instructor
2004-2006
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Transform Your Life

We’re more than an organization—we’re a community. Connect with us to explore how martial arts can transform lives, one step at a time.

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