BETHEL, Ohio (WXIX) -A karate academy in Clermont County will host a special tournament this Saturday at Batavia High School to honor the life of a 19-year-old former student who tragically lost her life in a drunk driving incident in November 2023, with the event aiming to raise funds for a scholarship established in her memory, reflecting her passion for volunteerism and community service.
The Universal Karate Academy in Bethel is hosting a tournament at Batavia High School on Saturday to raise money for a scholarship fund created in memory of Katie Cox, a 19-year-old former student of the academy.
Steve Dahlheimer, who taught Cox karate, noted that following her passing, there was a significant influx of donations, which they used to establish the scholarship. He mentioned that the gym has raised approximately $6,000 so far.
Almost 30 applicants from local schools submitted essays in hopes of receiving the scholarship.
“We wanted the scholarship to reflect Katie’s personality, so we focused on volunteering. We asked applicants to tell us about their volunteering experiences, a specific moment when they volunteered, and how it affected them,” Dahlheimer explained.
Cox’s parents shared that she saved at least 15 lives through organ donation.
Although the gym has raised around $6,000, they hope to increase that amount with the upcoming tournament.
“We’ve received an amazing outpouring of support from local businesses. Many have sponsored the tournament and come on board,” Dahlheimer said.
This tournament will mark the first time the scholarship is awarded.
“We’re hoping to decide the recipient this week and would really like that person to attend the tournament so we can present them with the scholarship. It’s important for us to keep Katie’s memory alive, and this is a wonderful opportunity to do so,” Dahlheimer added.
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