Ray Freeman has created something special. As the founder of the only Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program in Wyandotte County, Freeman is changing lives one session at a time.
One Community Jiu Jitsu Club opened its doors in August 2024 at the Turner Recreation Center located at 2203 Parallel Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas. Freeman coaches both children and adults Monday through Wednesday and on Fridays, offering an affordable alternative to traditional martial arts programs.
What makes Freeman’s story remarkable is the personal journey that led him to create this opportunity for others.
“My mother lost her parental rights when I was 12, so me and my sisters were in foster care. I grew up with a lot of trauma, and when I found jiu jitsu, it helped me compartmentalize and tackle those traumas,” Freeman told Kansas City local tv.
The impact of the program is already evident in the lives of its participants. Marcus Lee enrolled his 14-year-old daughter after she experienced bullying at school. After just a few sessions, Lee has noticed a significant change.
“Earn some self-defense, meet some new kids, increase her confidence, and I can see all those things happening real fast,” Lee said in article.
What truly sets One Community Jiu Jitsu Club apart is its accessibility. Operating as a nonprofit, Freeman charges families just $25 per month—a fraction of the $160 to $200 monthly fee typical at other clubs. The program even covers the cost of uniforms, known as “Gi,” removing another financial barrier for families.
“Where else are you gonna get that?” Lee remarked. “Especially in our community, there are a lot of people who can’t afford to get involved in a lot of things, great to have programs not just available but affordable.”
Freeman’s teaching philosophy extends beyond physical techniques to include valuable life lessons. During a recent session, he focused on self-regulation.
“My element of teaching today is gonna be self-regulation,” Freeman explained. “In Jiu Jitsu, there’s no one coming to save you…we have to think clearly and react with technique.”
By the end of each class, participants gain more than just martial arts skills—they develop tools to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
As Lee observed: “One of his quotes he uses a lot — there’s never any losses…just lessons. That’s a great tool for life.”
One Community Jiu Jitsu operates year-round and currently has openings for more families. The club is also seeking donors to help sustain and grow this valuable community resource.
