
On January 24, 2026, the Groundwork Foundation will be on-site at the ADCC San Diego Open at the Town and Country Resort – Golden State Ballroom (500 Hotel Cir N, San Diego, CA 92108). We’re excited to connect with the grappling community, share our mission, and collect lightly used jiu-jitsu gis that will go directly to athletes and kids in underserved communities around the world.
Find Us at the Groundwork Foundation Booth
Throughout the tournament, you can find us at the Groundwork Foundation booth, where we’ll be accepting clean, lightly used gis of all sizes. Every donation helps remove a barrier to training for someone who otherwise might not have access to the equipment they need to step onto the mats.
We’ll also be available to talk one-on-one about our work, answer questions, and share how the global jiu-jitsu community continues to play a critical role in creating real, measurable impact.
Turning Gi Donations Into Opportunity
For many athletes around the world, a gi isn’t just a uniform—it’s an opportunity. Through tournament-based collection drives like this one, we’re able to redirect resources from well-equipped gyms to communities where access is limited. Donated gis are distributed through trusted local partners, academies, and coaches who ensure they reach the kids and athletes who need them most.
This model allows us to stay lean, transparent, and impact-driven, while keeping the global jiu-jitsu community directly involved in the mission.
Looking Back: Our Recent Impact
Since launching in late 2025, Groundwork Foundation has focused on building strong relationships and delivering hands-on support through seminars, mission trips, and community-based events.
Recent projects include:
- Philippines outreach missions, supporting local academies through seminars, equipment donations, and mentorship
- Community seminars and donation-based events across the U.S., with proceeds and equipment benefiting youth programs
- Tournament presence at major events, including ADCC Opens, allowing us to stay connected to athletes and supporters
Every project is guided by the same principle: meet communities where they are and create sustainable pathways for growth through jiu-jitsu.
What’s Ahead in 2026
As we move into 2026, our focus is on expanding both reach and consistency. Upcoming initiatives include:
- Additional international outreach missions, including expanded work in Southeast Asia and Latin America
- Continued gi and equipment distribution through tournament collection drives
- More charity seminars and collaborations with gyms, instructors, and event organizers
- Growing long-term partnerships that help us scale responsibly while maintaining direct impact
The ADCC San Diego Open is an important stop as we continue building momentum for the year ahead.
How You Can Get Involved
If you’re competing, coaching, or spectating at ADCC San Diego Open, we invite you to:
- Bring a lightly used gi and drop it off at our booth
- Stop by to learn more about our past and upcoming projects
- Connect with us about partnership or collaboration opportunities
Together, we can use jiu-jitsu as a tool to create opportunity, build confidence, and strengthen communities—one gi at a time.
We look forward to seeing you on January 24, 2026, in San Diego.

