Creating Change Without a Roadmap: Jon Thomas at TEDxSpringfield

Jon Thomas is the founder of Tap Cancer Out, a 501(c)(3) Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu nonprofit which is today host of the most philanthropic martial arts events in the world.

In this TEDx talk, Jon shares his journey on how and why he started Tap Cancer Out and what he has learned along the way. Tap Cancer Out, a unique blend of philanthropy and martial arts, is just one example of how individuals and organizations can combine to make real changes in our communities.

The theme of TEDxSpringfield's inaugural event held on October 18, 2013, was "Driving Innovation Through Diversity and Inclusion." We are a group of passionate volunteers that believe Springfield and its surrounding areas are full of Ideas Worth Spreading. Springfield is the "City of Firsts" -- the first basketball game, the first motorcycle, the first "Springfield". This event focused on how to use our diversity to bring back the innovation.

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)