Fundraisers

It is mandatory that dojo members and their family participate in fundraisers to help defray operational costs. San Jose Kendo Dojo is a non-profit volunteer member operated organization. No one is paid to instruct or maintain the dojo.

The main source of funding comes from membership dues and fundraisers. Membership dues and tournament entry fees are kept low because of these fundraisers. Costs include gymnasium rental, tournament expenses, summer camp, shinpan seminars, and promotional exams.

We also contribute time at the San Jose Buddhist Church’s Obon Festival to help defray gymnasium rental costs. The San Jose Buddhist Church (July) and the Nichiren Temple (Dec) also have their annual clean-up days in which we are expected to help at. All members are expected to help at these events to show our appreciation to the facility owners for allowing us to have our practices there.

Tournaments & Camps

There are several federation sponsored kendo tournaments throughout the year that a member can participate in. Tournament participation requires that the kenshi have a bogu. These include the annual North / South California tournament, Steveston Canada Tournament, and every three years All California Tournament, and AUSKF Tournament. San Jose Kendo Dojo also hosts a tournament each year. Dojo members and family members will be asked to help with the tournament activities.

There are several camps that a member can participate in. These include the NCKF sponsored kendo camp in the summer, which invites multiple high ranking sensei including 8 Dan (Hachidan) sensei from Japan, and the AUSKF summer kendo camp.

Promotion Test

Promotion exams for rank advancement are conducted 2 times per year. See Head Sensei for approval to participate. For the test, the member demonstrates good kendo form (bogu required) in front of a panel of NCKF Sensei judges. A participation fee and a fee for the official federation promotion certificate (this is your official record of rank) will be collected in advance. The certificate fee will be refunded if advancement is not granted.

Dojo Picnic & Year-End Party

The dojo has an annual summer picnic and an End of Year party. These are potluck with lots of good food and activities! Member family and friends are welcome to attend. This is a good way for everyone to get together with others and have a good time. At the year end party we will be collecting $10.00 per member for Sensei appreciation gifts, thanking them for their instruction, encouragement and support throughout the year.