Community Spirit Triumphs: Satori Ju Jitsu's Fundraising Efforts Soar Beyond Targets
When a martial arts dojo like Satori Ju Jitsu in Llanelli dreams big, the right innovation and tools can significantly impact their path forward. Enter Spond’s Spot the Ball, which transformed a fundraising effort into an overwhelming success.
Nate Cheetham, a devoted 19-year-old coach at Satori, had the privilege to represent the GB Ju Jitsu Squad and the Welsh Ju Jitsu Squad at the JJIF German Ju Jitsu Open. While this was no small feat, the cost of the journey presented a hurdle. The dojo aimed to raise £600 to support Nate’s trip to Germany.
Spot the Ball was the perfect solution
The Spot the Ball campaign by Spond, recommended by Chris Thyer, the dojo’s co-founder, provided a creative solution. Participants bought chances to estimate the location of a digitally removed ball from an image, with the closest guess winning a prize.
For Satori Ju Jitsu’s first experience with Spot the Ball, the response was astounding. Chris Thyer said, “Venturing into new territory is always daunting, but the execution was seamless. The buzz it created was tangible, and the feedback was overwhelmingly in favuor.”
A commendable aspect of this effort was that 30 of the dojo’s 222 members actively participated as sellers, infusing a sense of community into the initiative. Such unity truly mirrors the martial arts’ core principles – unity, support, and determination.
The Ju Jitsu fundraising goal was smashed
Their efforts surpassed the initial £600 goal, raising an impressive £685. This meant that Nate would be accompanied by Chris to Germany, emphasizing the strong connection within the Satori Ju Jitsu community.
Chris and Kathryn, who founded the dojo seven years ago, were taken aback by the response. Kathryn expressed: “Witnessing what a sports community can accomplish when unified is truly remarkable. This went beyond fundraising; it showcased our dojo’s heart and spirit.”
A special acknowledgment goes to members Ted and Megan, who collectively raised almost £400, significantly contributing to the cause.
As Nate readies himself for the German competition, backed by his dojo’s hopes and unwavering encouragement, this narrative goes beyond a single individual’s chance. It’s about a basic game that united a community, highlighted the essence of Satori Ju Jitsu, and turned a young coach’s aspirations into a tangible reality.