501(c)(3) NONPROFIT FOUNDATION
We founded Community Over Competition in 2023 out of a shared love for female fighters and a deep desire to build a supportive, uplifting community in the combat sports world. From the very beginning, our goal was simple: create a space where women from different gyms could come together to spar, sharpen their skills in a real and authentic way, and prepare for whatever challenges lay ahead.
What started with just six women and three gyms has grown into a vibrant network of over 100 members from more than 25 schools across the DMV. We’ve built a culture where friendships flourish, rivalries turn into respect, and the sport brings us closer instead of dividing us.
But our mission goes beyond the mats. I believe every woman should have the chance to reconnect with her strength, confidence, and identity—regardless of her circumstances. That’s why we partner with local gyms to sponsor up to a full year of training for women who need it most.
We also give back in ways that align with our values. From our successful January and August 2024 fundraisers to our partnerships with domestic violence prevention organizations, we’re always looking for meaningful ways to make an impact.
Community Over Competition isn’t just a foundation—it’s a movement. It’s about uplifting women both inside and outside the ring, breaking down barriers, and helping them rediscover the strength and resilience that’s always been within them.
Who We Are
Community Over Competition Foundation is a nonprofit focused on disrupting the cycles of abuse and violence through access, education, and community connection.
We work alongside shelters, advocates, and trusted martial arts gyms to create opportunities for women and families to learn personal safety, awareness, and confidence in supportive environments.
Our goal is simple: to make sure cost, stigma, or circumstance never stand in the way of someone gaining tools to protect themselves and move forward with strength and connection.
How We Break the Cycle
Abuse and Violence often repeats through isolation, fear, and silence.
Our foundation focuses on the points in the cycle where community, education, and visibility make the most difference.
Breaking the stigma: We lead outreach initiatives that bring conversations about safety, respect, and recovery into the open — helping shift how communities talk about abuse and prevention.
Interrupting the cycle: We partner with shelters and trustworthy gyms to provide structured personal safety and self-defense programs for women and families who have been referred and approved for sponsorship.
Preventing recurrence: We invest in education and awareness campaigns that equip the public with the knowledge to recognize early warning signs and support others before harm happens.
By addressing the gaps where people are often left without access or information, we help shift communities toward awareness, action, and accountability.