About
About Battlecry Initiative
Battlecry Initiative is a community-driven nonprofit that uses Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to help people grow stronger—physically, mentally, and as members of their community.
Our organization is led by five individuals committed to service: Lee, Chris, Manny, Claudio, and Ernesto. Together we bring experience from both the nonprofit world and the martial arts community.
Manny, Ernesto, and Claudio are Black Belt instructors and leaders at Tri City Jiu-Jitsu, where they have spent years developing athletes, mentoring youth, and building a culture rooted in discipline, humility, and resilience.
Lee and Chris bring extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, focusing on community outreach, program development, and building sustainable initiatives that serve those who need it most. Together, they bring decades of experience in nonprofit leadership and martial arts—designing programs that are safe, trauma-aware, and built to last.
Through the combined strengths of leadership, service, and martial arts, Battlecry Initiative was created to give people a place where they can grow stronger physically, mentally, and as members of a supportive community.
We focus our work on women, veterans, and youth who deserve access to strength, safety, and community. At the core of everything we do is the belief that everyone deserves a chance to stand stronger than they did yesterday.
Our Mission
Battlecry Initiative exists to strengthen communities by empowering women, veterans, and youth through the discipline and character development found in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
We provide:
- Self-defense programs for women that build confidence, awareness, and real-world skills.
- Training and community for veterans, offering a supportive environment where camaraderie and purpose continue beyond service.
- Opportunities for youth, including classes, uniforms, mentorship, and a structured environment that builds discipline and character.
Through these programs we aim to build:
- Stronger youth prepared to lead the next generation
- Confident women capable of protecting themselves and others
- A brotherhood and sisterhood where veterans find belonging and purpose
Our mission is simple but powerful: To rise together and create stronger individuals, stronger families, and a stronger community.
What We Believe
At Battlecry Initiative, we believe:
Discipline builds character.
Community creates resilience.
Jiu-Jitsu develops the mindset to overcome adversity.
When individuals grow stronger, the entire community rises with them.