Join us at Charlottesville BJJ on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from noon to 2 p.m. for our Veterans Day Open Mat benefiting the We Defy Foundation! We’ll be rolling during our normal open mat hours. Donations are encouraged but never required to participate.

Two decades of war in Iraq and Afghanistan shaped a generation of veterans. For many, returning to civilian life has meant navigating both the lasting effects of combat deployments and the loss of the camaraderie, structure, and shared purpose they knew in uniform. The need for connection and support continues long after coming home.

The We Defy Foundation helps combat veterans coping with military service-connected disabilities find a path forward through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Charlottesville BJJ is proud to be a certified We Defy affiliate training gym, helping provide a welcoming community where veterans can train, challenge themselves, and build new connections. 

Here’s how you can help:

• Donate: All donations go directly to the We Defy Foundation to help other combat veterans access BJJ. Anything helps!

• Share: Pass this fundraising page along to friends, family, and teammates.

• Join us: Come share some rounds and support our veteran community.

Thank you for helping us extend that opportunity to others. See you on the mats!