General Overview

MJKO is a not-for-profit community-based charity that has operated since 2010 with a full-time executive director, committed staff, an experienced board of directors, and several long-term program volunteers giving them the governance and capacity to carry out large-scale, funded projects.

For more than a decade, our programs have been designed to prioritize the well-being of our participants. We follow a sequence called the Hierarchy of Needs, which has five essential components: physiological needs, safety, love and belonging, self-esteem and confidence, and self-actualization. Through sports leadership training, we aim to build Community Champions.

Our coaches are members of the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and have been trained by Dr. Cathy van Ingen in Truma-Informed Coaching practices.

Programs and Activities

MJKO is a place outside the home and school for children and youth to find safety, nourishment, certified professionals, mentorship, social interaction, and self-actualization. It’s a place where despite our many differences, we all belong.

MJKO serves approx. 500 participants annually.

Each year MJKO provides the following:

• 1. The use of non-contact boxing as a ‘hook’ to engage youth and provide support, opportunities, and training to enhance social inclusion and mental and physical well-being in a safe and welcoming space.
  2. A fun and inclusive atmosphere for children to engage in athletics with certified coaches who are trained in Safe Sports practices.
  3. We will provide access to nutritious food and menstruation products daily. This is done in partnership with Second Harvest and The Period Purse.
  4. A free March break and summer day camp for children ages 5-13 for 25 participants.
  5. Certifications, mentorships, and paid employment for youth facing barriers to employment.