In this episode, Sam Sapp interviews Ray Freeman, founder and executive director of One Community Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, who shares his journey from foster care to community leader and the valuable lessons learned along the way. Ray’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of creating positive change through martial arts and mentorship.
Ray’s journey began in Kansas City, Kansas, where he entered the foster care system at age 12 after his mother lost her parental rights. He candidly shares the challenges of moving through eight different homes during his teenage years, highlighting the emotional toll and lack of stability that many foster children face. Despite these obstacles, Ray’s experiences in foster care ultimately motivated him to create positive change in his community.
After aging out of the system at 18, Ray faced the daunting task of becoming self-sufficient without a traditional support system. He worked various jobs, including positions at Taco Bell and Sprint, gaining valuable experience and stability. However, it was his introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2015 that truly transformed his life.
Initially starting jiu jitsu as a way to lose weight, Ray soon discovered that the sport provided much more than physical benefits. He found a sense of community and family-like support that he had never experienced before. This revelation inspired him to found One Community Jiu Jitsu Club, with the goal of providing accessible jiu jitsu lessons and implementing the sport in public schools.
Ray shares the challenges of starting a nonprofit, including raising funds and finding a suitable space. Through persistence and networking, he secured a $5,000 grant to purchase equipment and began teaching free classes in a small classroom at Blessed Sacrament elementary school. His dedication to providing access to jiu jitsu for underprivileged youth has made a significant impact on the community.
Throughout the interview, Ray emphasizes the positive effects of jiu jitsu on the youth he works with, including improvements in confidence, self-esteem, and behavior. He shares specific examples of students whose lives have been changed through the sport, highlighting its potential as a tool for personal growth and emotional management.
Looking to the future, Ray discusses his vision of integrating jiu jitsu into public schools to address behavioral issues and promote personal development. He reflects on the importance of community support and the potential for martial arts to make a lasting positive impact on young people’s lives.
Ray’s story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how personal challenges can be transformed into opportunities for community service and positive change. His journey from foster care to founding a successful nonprofit underscores the power of resilience, mentorship, and the transformative potential of martial arts in building stronger communities.