Draft:Robert Heisner

Robert Heisner was born in Niagara Falls, NY, to Franklin and Arlene Heisner. His father, an Army veteran of World War II.{{Cite web |title=NARA - AAD - Display Full Records - Electronic Army Serial Number Merged File, ca. 1938 - 1946 (Enlistment Records) |url=https://aad.archives.gov/aad/record-detail.jsp?dt=893&mtch=1&cat=all&tf=F&q=franklin+heisner&bc=&rpp=10&pg=1&rid=3343019 |access-date=2025-02-18 |website=aad.archives.gov}} Franklin and Arlene moved to Niagara Falls from Hazleton, PA in 1940, where Robert and his younger brother, Barry, were born.

In school, Heisner was a competitive athlete, playing baseball{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette - August 30, 1960 - Heisner drives in winning run |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_728d77628f004941b1a093d268eeb19b.pdf}} and weightlifting.{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette - Heisner competed at the New York High School Weightlifting Championships |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_7b24512ae0e045bc8a1159e25dd65b34.pdf}}

At the age of 15, Robert developed an interest in martial arts. He valued the discipline and rigorous training involved, believing it would help him lead a successful life by fostering character development, improving his physical fitness, and providing practical self-defense skills.

Heisner graduated from Niagara Falls High School in June of 1964.{{Cite web |title=Jun 18, 1964, page 20 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/870084658/ |access-date=2025-03-02 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}

From a young age, Heisner chose to embrace the teachings of Christianity and share his faith with others.{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 21 March 1969 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19690321-01.1.8&srpos=4&e=------196-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1969---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-02-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}} He later incorporated this belief into founding the Warriors of the Sword{{Cite web |title=Martial arts {{!}} Warriors of the Sword Christian Martial Arts |url=https://www.wots.online/ |access-date=2025-02-18 |website=Warriors of the Swor |language=en}} evangelistic demonstration team evangelistic demonstration team and developing the Bushido Kai{{Cite web |title=Bushido Kai: The Style of the Martial Arts Warrior |url=https://projectfuturecenter.com/about |website=Project Future Center WNY}} martial arts system.

He studied the Bible and ministry at Elim Bible Institute and College. He held ordination credentials with Elim Fellowship.

At the age of eighteen, Heisner enlisted in the military and was stationed in Hokkaido, Japan, during the Vietnam War, where he further developed his interest in martial arts.

Early in his career, Heisner worked in security, with his most notable assignment being a bodyguard for Elvis Presley during his performance at the Niagara Falls Convention and Civic Center on July 13, 1975. Heisner also provided security for other celebrities and hotel chains. In addition to his security work, Heisner trained law enforcement officers from both the United States and Canada.{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 2 May 1971 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19710502-01.1.21&srpos=7&e=------197-en-20-nfg-1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 28 April 1971 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19710428-01.1.28&srpos=2&e=------197-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1971---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}

Before entering full-time ministry, Heisner managed commercial martial arts schools and served as a professor at Niagara County Community College. Heisner was incorporated under the oversight of Park Jong Soo in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.{{Cite web |title=Jul 12, 1973, page 47 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/871865623/ |access-date=2025-02-19 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Oct 17, 1973, page 7 - Record-Advertiser at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1140871563/ |access-date=2025-02-19 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}

Robert Heisner was an evangelist, pastor, and college professor who held black belts in several martial arts systems.{{Cite web |title=Apr 02, 1995, page 44 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/876434803/ |access-date=2025-01-20 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}} He often provided pulpit support for other ministers.{{Cite web |title=Heisner to speak at St. Peter's Lutheran - Pulpit Fill |url=https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2014/02/27/115105/heisner-to-speak-at-st.-peters-lutheran}} Heisner integrated his Christian faith with his extensive martial arts training in his evangelistic work.

Heisner dedicated himself to sharing the hope he found in his Christian faith with others, especially through outreach efforts targeted at youth. He believed that martial arts could be an effective tool for connecting with young people. This commitment was often demonstrated through the provision of free or low-cost programs, as well as work scholarships.

Heisner's programs taught martial arts, weightlifting, aerobics{{Cite web |title=Island Dispatch 7 August 1998 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=id19980807-01.1.41&srpos=2&e=------199-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1998---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}, and martial arts exercises to strengthen the body while incorporating spiritual disciplines into the curriculum. Robert was a long-time professor at Niagara County Community College, where he taught karate and self-defense classes.{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 24 February 1986 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19860224-01.1.5&srpos=6&e=------198-en-20--1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}

Heisner's ministry and martial arts careers were often intertwined throughout his life.

Heisner founded or participated in ministries and organizations such as New Life Christian Ministries, the Warriors of the Sword, and the Bushido Kai style of karate taught at the Project Future WNY center.

As an ordained minister, Heisner regularly provided comfort to those who had lost loved ones by offering counsel and performing funeral services.{{Cite web |title=Mar 19, 2009, page 15 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878247771/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Feb 10, 2007, page 5 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877397183/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Aug 10, 2005, page 5 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878157602/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Jan 07, 1987, page 4 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/876476385/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Oct 21, 1987, page 42 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/876037571/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Nov 07, 1993, page 5 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877475861/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}} He also counseled couples and officiated weddings.{{Cite web |title=Nov 19, 2000, page 78 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877880630/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Dec 29, 1985, page 90 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/875526052/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Feb 24, 1991, page 72 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877026069/ |access-date=2025-02-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Sep 19, 1993, page 96 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/875379258/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Aug 11, 1996, page 87 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/875999899/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Jun 25, 2000, page 83 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877865394/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Jun 20, 1992, page 38 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/875362474/ |access-date=2025-02-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Aug 09, 1992, page 29 - Kingsport Times-News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/594969158/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}

Heisner was dedicated to improving the future by reaching out to young people and families and helping to provide direction in their lives.{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 13 February 1971 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19710213-01.1.2&srpos=5&e=------197-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1971---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette - September 9, 1972 - St. Joseph Karate Demonstration |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_d911a76f04974a9d8d405d0d6c21b8be.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=Tonawanda News - April 24, 1974 - T-NT Youth Conference |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_8a030272b4414168ae7afc0064020a7c.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 14 September 1992 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19920914-01.1.5&srpos=10&e=------199-en-20--1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 28 September 1992 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19920928-01.1.1&srpos=6&e=------199-en-20--1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Jun 07, 1998, page 119 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877567307/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Feb 10, 2002, page 109 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878333254/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}} Heisner was co-director of the Christian Fellowship at at Niagara County Community College, where he was an instructor.{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 5 December 1988 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19881205-01.1.3&srpos=1&e=------198-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1988---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}} He was also the teacher for the college's tae kwon do club.{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 9 April 1990 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19900409-01.1.4&srpos=7&e=------199-en-20--1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}} His ministry had a significant impact in both the United States and Canada.{{Cite web |title=Niagara Gazette - October 21, 1972 - Youth For Christ Rally - Niagara Falls Ontario |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_2a4b9bc275d74e52bf547f6410c3b594.pdf}}

Heisner contributed to his community by offering practical life applications, including seminars for rape prevention.{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 19 October 1992 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19921019-01.1.8&srpos=11&e=------199-en-20--1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}

Heisner regularly combined martial arts with his ministry and conducted evangelistic karate demonstrations.{{Cite web |title=The Oswegonian 6 November 1980 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=osw19801106-01.1.6&srpos=3&e=------198-en-20--1--txt-txIN-bob+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=The Oswegonian 13 November 1980 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=osw19801113-01.1.7&srpos=6&e=------198-en-20--1--txt-txIN-bob+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Finger Lakes Times - March 24, 1983 - Karate Demonstration |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_32d40f9b7fab4404ad8a47e49054c119.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=Apr 14, 1983, page 15 - The Evening News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1091176160/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Apr 15, 1983, page 10 - The Evening News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1091178145/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Apr 15, 1983, page 18 - The Patriot-News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1077371019/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=The Messenger 6 November 1991 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=ma19911106-01.1.5&srpos=1&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-%22warriors+of+the+sword%22--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Apr 25, 1996, page 10 - The Sun and the Erie County Independent at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/49655060/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Feb 17, 2002, page 96 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878315998/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Jun 24, 1988, page 3 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/874705855/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 1 May 1989 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19890501-01.1.6&srpos=1&e=------198-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1989---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Nov 09, 1991, page 58 - Syracuse Herald-Journal at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1098379209/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}} One notable example is his involvement in the early years of the Kingdom Bound Christian festival.{{Cite web |title=Oct 03, 1987, page 25 - Democrat and Chronicle at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/137292166/?match=2&terms=kingdom%20bound%20heisner |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Oct 03, 1987, page 6 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/876066026/?match=1&terms=kingdom%20bound%20heisner |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}

The Warriors of the Sword ministry was established as a result of various other ministries. Heisner was frequently invited to college campuses to share the message of Christianity through karate demonstrations.{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 2 March 1981 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19810302-01.1.1&srpos=7&e=------198-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1981---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-02-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}} The launch of the Kingdom Bound Christian music festival inspired the development of the Warriors of the Sword demonstration team and Christian-focused karate programs.

Heisner was committed to making a positive impact on every community he engaged with. For instance, he served as a member of the Niagara County Juvenile Task Force and provided a youth martial arts program for the Niagara-Wheatfield School District. Heisner was actively involved in various community programs and events.{{Cite web |title=Apr 28, 2010, page 4 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878670991/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Jun 14, 2009, page 89 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878610708/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette - January 21, 1969 - Father Son Night |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_4b08dbd6977f43b2ad335ffc55b2a5f5.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 10 September 1971 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19710910-01.1.19&srpos=11&e=------197-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1971---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Jan 21, 1977, page 9 - The Daily Messenger at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/22244364/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Tonawanda New - April 7, 1983 - Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_3fb310bd0b554093bafd9669f5bd49e4.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=Oct 04, 1993, page 4 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877456749/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}

Robert became involved with the YMCA of Niagara Falls, NY, in 1967.{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette - July 16, 1967 - YMCA Plans for a Karate Club |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_5c8cba114f2a4d8ca1501275a70c79b4.pdf}} He offered martial arts classes to help young people develop self-discipline. These classes were available at YMCAs and YWCAs throughout Western New York.{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 17 October 1968 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19681017-01.1.12&srpos=2&e=------196-en-20--1--txt-txIN-bob+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 1 December 1968 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19681201-01.1.32&srpos=3&e=------196-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1968---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 3 October 1969 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19691003-01.1.17&srpos=1&e=------196-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1969---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 27 September 1970 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19700927-01.1.20&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner+master+martial-------Niagara-- |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 10 January 1971 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19710110-01.1.22&srpos=8&e=------197-en-20-nfg-1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 27 June 1971 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19710627-01.1.29&srpos=17&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner+ymca--------- |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 26 September 1971 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19710926-01.1.52&srpos=3&e=------197-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----1971---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette - January 12, 1972 - YMCA Karate Class |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_c3dfa3990c6d4c228aeac8035b470a50.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette - March 10, 1972 - YWCA Wado Ryu, Tae Kwon Do, Karate Classes |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_f0fd72bc4a324daa8ed36338f0f301c1.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=Tonawanda News - March 24, 1972 - YWCA Karate Classes |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_d4770784960e4355bff70744fdfb7ccd.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette - April 7, 1972 - YWCA Offers Tae Kwon Do Classes |url=https://www.wots.online/_files/ugd/4055e3_774837f42965488fad7839e0b3cb7474.pdf}}{{Cite web |title=Courier Express 23 January 1974 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=coe19740123-01.1.55&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN---------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}} Additionally, Heisner served on the board of the YMCA and was appointed the YMCA Spiritual Fitness Director.{{Cite web |title=Jan 30, 1986, page 2 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/876291382/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Sep 30, 1993, page 5 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877435482/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}

A key focus of Heisner's community efforts was to "kick drugs and violence out of schools."{{Cite web |last=PSG |title=Project Future presents Kick-A-Thon |url=https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2015/06/13/121097/project-future-presents-kick-a-thon |website=Niagara Frontier Publications}}{{Cite web |title=Students get a kick out of Project Future |url=https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2011/04/07/102191/students-get-a-kick-out-of-project-future |website=Niagara Frontier Publications}}{{Cite web |title=Project Future kicks off for fall |url=https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2011/09/08/103626/project-future-kicks-off-for-fall |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Niagara Frontier Publications}}{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 30 April 1990 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19900430-01.1.2&srpos=2&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-%22new+life+christian%22-------Erie,Genesee,Niagara,Orleans-- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}} He also engaged in various spiritual and martial arts activities within his community (including Hurricane Katrina relief.){{Cite web |title=Island Dispatch 16 September 2005 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=id20050916-01.1.4&srpos=13&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-%22project+future%22-------Erie,Genesee,Niagara,Orleans-- |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}{{Cite web |title=Island Dispatch 8 December 2006 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=id20061208-01.1.8&srpos=10&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-%22project+future%22-------Erie,Genesee,Niagara,Orleans-- |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}

Heisner's Project Future was recognized as one of the top small businesses in Niagara County.{{Cite web |title=Island Dispatch 23 May 2008 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=id20080523-01.1.8&srpos=1&e=------200-en-20--1--txt-txIN-heisner----2008---Cattaraugus,Chautauqua,Erie,Genesee,Monroe,Niagara,Orleans,Wyoming-- |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}} The Wheatfield Business Association awarded Project Future the title of Business of the Year, while Robert Heisner received the Business Person of the Year award.{{Cite web |title=Jun 15, 2008, page 7 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878278628/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}} He was also honored for his contributions to youth initiatives and received various commendations and acknowledgments for his work.{{Cite web |title=Sep 15, 2002, page 119 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878713042/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=The Spirit 12 May 1975 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=spr19750512-01.1.7&srpos=2&e=------197-en-20-spr-1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner--------- |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}}

After Heisner's passing, the community has continued to acknowledge his impact. Niagara County Legislator Jesse Gooch provided funding to support Project Future, which Heisner established.

Heisner began his martial arts training at the age of 15 in 1961.{{Failed verification|date=March 2025}} He continued to enhance his skills while stationed in Hokkaido, Japan, during his service in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967.{{Cite web |title=Niagara Falls Gazette 13 December 1966 — The NYS Historic Newspapers |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=nfg19661213-01.1.19&srpos=8&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-robert+heisner+1966-------Niagara-- |access-date=2025-02-18 |website=nyshistoricnewspapers.org}} Heisner remained a lifelong student of martial arts.

Heisner was a competitive athlete representing Master Park Jong Soo in various tournaments and overseeing his Tae Kwon Do schools in Western New York.{{Cite web |title=Apr 22, 1972, page 22 - The Toronto Star at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/947945797/ |access-date=2025-02-28 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=May 06, 1974, page 21 - The Toronto Star at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/946506981 |access-date=2025-02-28 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}} In a 1975 issue of Black Belt Magazine, Heisner's students were recognized as tournament champions.{{Cite web |title=Feb 01, 1981, page 38 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/874094300/?match=1&terms=david%20thiele%20heisner |access-date=2025-03-01 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=l9cDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA72&dq=black+belt+magazine+jim+young&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjm_Iz9nuiLAxX4mbAFHXASFD8Q6AF6BAgLEAM#v=onepage&q=black%20belt%20magazine%20jim%20young&f=false |title=Black Belt Magazine - November 1975 |publisher=Active Interest Media, Inc. |pages=71-72}}

Robert was a pioneer of Tae Kwon Do in Western New York.{{Cite web |last=Manapsal |first=Geb |date=2024-09-28 |title=What is Tae Kwon-Do? |url=https://gorinotaekwondo.com/blog/what-is-taekwondo-2/ |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=Master Gorino's Tae Kwon-Do Amherst |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Manapsal |first=Geb |date=2024-09-29 |title=Charlie Carries the Torch |url=https://gorinotaekwondo.com/blog/charlie-black-belt/ |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=Master Gorino's Tae Kwon-Do Amherst |language=en-US}} He represented Grandmaster Park Jong Soo in the Buffalo and Niagara Falls regions of New York.

Robert Heisner founded Bushido Kai in late 1989, and the system has expanded since then. This martial arts discipline was developed from various styles in which Heisner trained.

Robert was subsequently awarded his Eighth and Ninth Degree Black Belts in Bushido Kai.

Heisner has trained numerous martial artists who, like him, have gone on to positively impact their communities.{{Cite web |title=Jan 26, 2019, page 12 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com - Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/945584329/ |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=www.newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web|title=A partnership for the future: Nitro Martial Arts opens adjacent to Project Future WNY |url=https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/featured/2015/08/28/121895/a-partnership-for-the-future-nitro-martial-arts-opens-adjacent-to-project-future-wny |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=Niagara Frontier Publications}}{{Cite web |last=Manapsal |first=Geb |date=2024-09-26 |title=Master Gorino to Test for 7th Dan |url=https://gorinotaekwondo.com/news/master-gorino-to-test-for-7th-dan/ |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=Master Gorino's Tae Kwon-Do Amherst |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Oct 18, 2012, page 25 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877800671/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Project Future: Help make a difference |url=https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2012/10/18/108199/project-future-help-make-a-difference |website=Niagara Frontier Publications}}{{Cite web |title=Feb 07, 1994, page 4 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/875432249/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Sep 06, 1997, page 3 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877077779/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Sep 06, 1997, page 36 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/877617988/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}} He has inspired many individuals to lead successful lives and contribute to the well-being of others. One of Heisner's black belts was a young man with Down syndrome, who encouraged and motivated numerous people around him.{{Cite web |title=Jun 17, 2004, page 5 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878519810/ |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Nov 07, 2004, page 46 - The Buffalo News at Newspapers.com |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/878289162 |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en}}

Heisner married Marianne Murdock in 1965. The couple remained married until Heisner's death, and they had one daughter named Stacey.{{Cite web |title=Obituary for Robert 'Bob' Heisner at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel |url=https://www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com/obituary/robert-bob-heisner?lud=42C97CB0FC81AFFCE538E5D201AC349F |access-date=2025-01-25 |website=www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com |language=en}}File:Project Future Week.jpg]]He passed away on March 7, 2024.

Heisner founded the Bushido Kai martial arts system and the Warriors of the Sword ministries.

Master Park Jong Soo referred to Heisner as the "grandfather of Tae Kwon Do in Western New York."

Heisner co-authored "The Definitive History of Bushido Kai",{{Cite web |last=Heisner |first=Robert |last2=Dallmann |first2=Robert |title=The Definitive History of Bushido Kai |url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BY84GTI}}{{Cite web |last=Heisner |first=Robert |last2=Dallmann |first2=Robert |title=Copyright of "The Definitive History of Bushido Kai" |url=https://cocatalog.loc.gov/cgi-bin/Pwebrecon.cgi?Search_Arg=Definitive+History+of+Bushido+Kai&Search_Code=TALL&PID=4m0vx8MK5CKrCQUlaXpRAOCJEw780&SEQ=20240909174109&CNT=25&HIST=1 |website=US Copyright Office}} which outlines the founding of the Bushido Kai karate system. Additionally, he wrote the training manual for this system.

The Town of Wheatfield honored Robert Heisner's Project Future by proclaiming October 14th through October 21st Project Future Week.

Heisner's legacy continues after his death. Niagara County Legislator Jesse Gooch awarded Heisner's Project Future funding to help continue the work he began.{{Cite news |title=Gooch funding assists Project Future WNY in Wheatfield |url=https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2024/11/23/161636/gooch-funding-assists-project-future-wny-in-wheatfield |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250114235111/https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2024/11/23/161636/gooch-funding-assists-project-future-wny-in-wheatfield |archive-date=2025-01-14 |access-date=2025-04-27 |work=Niagara Frontier Publications}} The Niagara County Legislature declared April 26, 2025, "Grand Master Rev. Robert Heisner Day." This certificate was presented to Heisner's wife, Marianne.

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