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Breaking boards, raising funds for veterans

Photo 3_Taekwondo breakathon-300w DAV Donate to VeteransWhether it’s front, side or roundhouse kicks, Hamilton-Fairfield Taekwondo in Fairfield, Ohio, has been breaking boards since 1983. 

But for the past several years, members have decided to use their skills to raise money to support veterans.

The center was started by retired Army Sgt. Maj. Arnold Huffstutler and his two children, David and Suzanne. Unfortunately, Arnold passed away after a short battle with cancer in 2016. 

To honor his father’s legacy as a veteran, David began a yearly Break-A-Thon in 2017. Since the fundraiser’s inception, his students have brought in more donations each year.

In 2022, they busted over 1,000 boards, which translated to over $16,500 in support of disabled veterans and their families.

Yet there’s another perk David sees to the yearly board-breaking benefit for veterans.Photo 6_DAV Ohio Ch 115 Commander Will Scott shows student appreciation

“I want to teach our youth that part of life is giving back. The Break-A-Thon is a great way to incorporate what they enjoy doing with giving to others,” David said.

“I’m also hoping that other martial arts studios, dance studios and fitness centers will encourage their students to do similar fundraisers for DAV.”

What sport or hobby do you enjoy doing with your family and friends? Perhaps you like to hike, bike, bake, knit, drum or strum. Whatever it is— Why not turn it into a fundraiser and give back to our nation’s heroes?

Every dollar donated ensures that we are keeping our promise to America’s disabled veterans. Create your own fundraiser for DAV at VictoriesforVeterans.com.
 


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