Help local gym run inclusive self-defence programs

Let’s Grow Boxing was set up to offer boxing, martial arts and self-defence classes to the community of Oxford. The vision was to be inclusive of all, particularly those members of the community that were underrepresented in the world of combat sports. Inviting people who are LGBTQIA+, women, neuro-diverse people and those with disabilities. Despite the difficulties of lockdowns, Let’s Grow Boxing has grown and grown. With an overwhelming majority of customers being women, gay, bi-sexual and trans. In addition, LGB has offered classes to youngsters and charities in Oxford, as well as supporting individuals that could not afford to train, with free sessions. We recently welcomed our second coach, a female, who will be offering classes specifically to those that identify as women. As we continue to grow, so does our ambition. We have just signed up to take over the studio we have been using since we started.

It is indeed, a very big risk, but one that we know is worth it to provide a safe space in the centre of Oxford for people to improve their physical and mental wellbeing. This has taken all of the money that has been generated and left us with no money for newer and safe equipment (mats ands pads over potential hazards to protect our students). In order to continue offering our services to the Oxford community and to keep our students safe, we need your help to raise at least £4,000 by July 10th!

Here are a few of our goals moving forward that you can help to assist with:

1) Regular Women’s Self-Defence classes, helping to make women feel safe in Oxford.

2) Bully Beatdown classes for Oxfordshire youths that are concerned by or suffering from bullying.

3) Assisting more charities by offering Boxing for Mental Health classes to people that use their services.

4) Community space – allowing local charities to use our space for events and fundraising so we can give back and share the privilege of having a centrally located space.

Anything that you can spare to support our goal of supporting the marginalized in the community of Oxford and create a precedent for combat sport clubs to be more inclusive, will be greatly appreciated. All proceeds will be recorded and available for reference. Your donations will be used to create a safer and more inclusive space in the Oxford community. Thank you for reading!