The DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) is continuing and expanding its youth outreach through a partnership with Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Medford, Massachusetts. Owned and led by world-renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion Robson Rodrigues, known as “Mau Mau,” the academy brings a powerful blend of skill and mentorship to the DEAEF Youth Martial Arts Program, fostering a healthy, positive environment for local youth to learn self-discipline, resilience, and teamwork.

Building Skills and Staying Drug-Free: The Summer Program

The partnership began with a successful summer program in 2022 and 2023 and continued this year due to a generous donation by Rockland Recover and Treatment Center under the DEAEF’s national Martial Arts Programs. During the most recent two-week summer session, 20 young participants attended 10 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes, learning foundational techniques and building a strong sense of discipline and confidence. Brian O’Keefe, DEA Community Outreach Specialist, and Dan Staffieri, DEAEF CFO, addressed the students at the program’s kickoff, emphasizing the importance of leading a drug-free life and highlighting the positive impact of martial arts on personal development.

Expanding Impact with Two Fall Programs

Following the success of the summer program, DEAEF launched two free fall programs. Sessions are held at both Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Medford and Stoneham Central Middle School in Stoneham, Massachusetts.

At Mau Mau’s Dojo, 20 students in grades 1–8 participate in weekly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. The program at Stoneham Central Middle School serves 20 students in grades 5 and 6, with classes held on Mondays after school, providing a supportive environment for skill development and resilience.

A Lasting Partnership with Rockland Recovery Treatment Center

All three DEAEF Martial Arts Programs are overseen on the ground by Bobby McCarron, an instructor and Jiu Jitsu Black Belt with the Dojo, who emphasizes, “We are empowering kids through the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We are trying to keep kids in sports and out of courts!” Generously sponsored by Rockland Recovery Treatment Center, which has been a steadfast supporter of the DEAEF’s mission, Rockland’s sponsorship has been vital to expanding these programs that continue to benefit and uplift the community.

Leadership and Inspiration from Mau Mau

Robson Rodrigues, a globally recognized Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion, brings decades of expertise and passion to the DEAEF Youth Martial Arts Program. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Rodrigues, known as “Mau Mau,” began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the age of 12. He has since accumulated numerous titles in both Brazil and the United States, including World Champion (Worlds) and IBJJF New York Open Gold Medalist. His commitment to helping students become “champions on the mat and in life” is at the heart of his academy’s approach, instilling values that extend far beyond the dojo.

Reflecting the core philosophy of Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, these programs strive not only to teach martial arts skills but also to develop character, resilience, and a commitment to positive living. The DEAEF partnership with Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy exemplifies the transformative power of martial arts, offering youth in Medford, Stoneham, and surrounding areas a positive, supportive community where they can thrive.

As the DEAEF Youth Martial Arts Program continues this fall and looks ahead to 2025, the impact of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training will be felt throughout these communities, providing young people with the tools they need to lead healthy, empowered lives.