Okami Judo Club with LC Judo

Our struggle, our strength:

Our Judo club is our attempt to bring a cultural opportunity to public schools in California. We have been in existence for over 4 years now and it has become very apparent that our club and culture is needed and desired by youth. 

In our pursuit, we have almost been closed due to policies and the workings within government. Our students and parents came together, prepared, and presented to our school board during a public meeting in order to request help! It was very difficult but, after hearing the testimony of each of our students, the school district was able to guide us to the 501(c)3 we now belong to. 

Unfortunately, we lost a majority of our previous funding during the shift.

We are able to give this unique opportunity and supportive culture to all youth in the area now! 

More about our club:

Okami Judo Club is a martial arts 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that focuses on local youth development through Japanese culture. Part of this culture is a strong sense of community and developing within our virtues while practicing a Japanese martial art.

Okami Judo Club is unique as it is not solely based on competition. We provide as supportive community of youth that practices Jita-kyoei (spirit of mutual prosperity for self and others). Our club provides a place to learn how strategic goals and work will excel one in life. This is very important in our dojo as it is something that seems to be vanishing in American today as it become more individualistic. We believe that, by providing this environment, many youth can build confidence in accomplishment through Judo.

Our club connects to a much wider community of Judoka (Judo practitioners). Our club visits other Judo dojos which have the same level of etiquette and higher moral standing than other martial arts clubs available. Some of these clubs we are welcomed to join and share with are located in the Bay Area, Sacramento area, and Hawaii at various Hongwanji Missions that all have their own Judo programs.

In Okami Judo Club, we practice etiquette such as bowing appropriately, showing respect to others including those of lower rank needing guidance. We also work as a community to accomplish goals such as this fundraiser we desperately need.