Big Brothers Big Sisters Visits True Believer Jiu Jitsu

True Believer Jiu Jitsu
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True Believer Jiu Jitsu recently partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh to share in the gift of friendship and spread positivity through the sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The event took place at True Believer Jiu Jitsu in Lawrenceville, where a group of 19 mentors and mentees from Big Brothers Big Sisters came together with volunteers from True Believer to learn about the martial art.

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The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization seeks to “provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported, one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.” The volunteers at True Believer had the opportunity to take part in that mission, while sharing life lessons from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Mentors and mentees also took turns learning self-defense techniques in a safe and welcoming environment.

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The benefits of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program are meaningful and real. According to the organization, mentees involved in the program for one year show improvements in the following areas:

  • 66% reported higher feelings of social support.

  • 86% reported disapproval of risky behaviors.

  • 87% reported high educational expectations.

  • And 57% earned above average grades.

The event was coordinated by Randy Mardayat, a member of True Believer Jiu Jitsu and longtime mentor for the BBBS program — and his fellow volunteers from True Believer were proud to support such a great cause.

Be sure to follow the Pittsburgh chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters, and keep an eye out for opportunities to get involved.