Amy and I would like to thank all our members, friends and family that continue to support us during this uncertain time.  We have been following the guidelines set forth by our local government and have been shut down since the stay at home order went into effect. We respect the decisions made to keep us all safe and healthy, however, that has put major damage on our business. 

We have applied for the small business loans and grants, but like many and most small gyms, we have heard nothing.  Our students are like our second family. We want to make sure we are still here for them once small gyms are allowed to open. Overwhelmingly, our students were quick to message me in support and tell me that they want to keep paying their dues while we are closed. But due to everything being shut down, some members have lost their jobs and income and we understand the hard times that they are going through.

I've been in Martial Arts for the last 20 years ever since I've gotten out of the Army, I've trained and taught for others and my dream was to open my own school one day. So I set aside money and saved up for years. In September of this last year, I finally opened my own School Ruffhouse Jiu Jitsu Columbus.  I ran into a few unforeseen set backs in January with my original lease agreement which ate into my rainy day funds. As you all know, this has been more than just a rainy day but a long thunderstorm with no definite end in sight.  

I've been fortunate to still be at work. I've been working 6 and 7 days a week to keep paying the utilities &  lease on an empty gym so that when we get the word we can reopen, we can get right back to training following all the new health and safety guidelines that will be set forth.  But we are in the dark on when that will come. Due to the nature of our type of martial art which requires close proximity training, I've heard it could be a month to another 8 months before we will be allowed to open.

We understand that we are all struggling, and only ask for donations for those who can afford to do so. Most of the donations will be used for monthly expenses to keep the gym open while being forced to be closed and towards the high sanitary expectations and cleaning products to keep our gym even cleaner than it was. 

This was the last thing that I wanted to do, I was really hoping we would be able to open before my rainy day funds run out for the gym and I wouldn't have to ask for help. 

We  understand if you cannot donate,  but please share this! Stay Safe and God Bless!

Sincerely,

Chris & Amy Larkin