UPDATE: We hit our initial $6,000 goal — THANK YOU! More than 160 of you gave, and donations kept coming, so we raised the target twice. We're now above $12,000.

That support let us do more than we planned. We're expanding beyond a single discipline to cover martial arts training more broadly, adding equipment, and reaching more kids. The fund was never about one sport. It was about access.

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First Stance Fund - Help Us Build a Martial Arts Training Program for Low-Income Kids in San Mateo

Goal: $6,000

Our Mission

My name is Jason Lao, and I am a junior at Aragon High School. I've trained in martial arts for twelve years, and at a gym here in San Mateo for the past four. Training changed how I carry myself, and I wanted younger kids to have that same chance — regardless of what their family can pay.

I’m raising $6,000 for the First Stance Fund to to cover the fees that keep low-income kids ages 8–14 out of martial arts training in San Mateo. Classes are free to participants, equipment is provided, and every dollar goes to keeping the program running. The goal is to provide kids with access to high-quality coaching, mentorship, and a safe, positive space to grow.

Why Martial Arts

Training has taught me far more than technique:

• Physical - speed, footwork, agility, strength, and endurance

• Mental - grit, focus, strategy, discipline, and confidence

These lessons have helped me both inside and outside the gym—in school, and in how I handle everything else in life. I believe every kid deserves the chance to build these skills, whatever their family finances.

The Program

• Free weekly martial arts classes — non-contact instruction focused on fundamentals, conditioning, and technique

• Led by Coach Val, an experienced coach and mentor

• I will assist Coach Val during classes

• Beginners welcome; no experience needed

• All equipment will be provided, so there is no cost barrier for families

• Focus on martial arts fundamentals, fitness, discipline, and confidence-building

This program is about creating structure, community, and opportunity for kids who may not otherwise have access to organized sports or mentorship.

How Your Donation Helps

Your support will directly fund:

• Coaching and instruction

• Gym access and class operation

• Equipment for youth participants

• Keeping the program running consistently

Every dollar goes toward building a program that supports youth development, physical health, and positive mentorship.

Why Your Support Matters

The barrier is cost, not interest. There are kids in San Mateo who want to train and would get a great deal out of it, and what stops them is a monthly fee. This fund removes it — and gives them structure, mentorship, and a room where effort gets noticed.

With your support, we can give kids in San Mateo a place to train, grow, belong, and build discipline and confidence—both in the gym and beyond.

How You Can Help

• Donate—any amount makes a difference

• Share this fundraiser with your community

• Support local youth and grassroots programs

Thank you for helping us open the door!