Yearly Race Honoring Tywanza Sanders Raises Enough to Fund Five Scholarships

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Community Unites in Memory of Tywanza Sanders

Almost nine years after the tragic shooting at Mother Emanuel AME Church which claimed the life of Tywanza Sanders, the community gathers in record numbers to honor his memory. Holding the most registered participants in its history, the #Race4Wanza Doughnut Dash 5K witnessed the participation of more than 400 people.

An Unconventional Tribute with Sweeter Outcomes

The participants rallied together on a Saturday to complete a 5K, with a unique twist. In the middle of the race, a stop was made to consume a dozen doughnuts outside of a Krispy Kreme store on Savannah Highway in West Ashley. This unusual tradition adds a touch of personal tribute to the event, as Sanders had previously worked at the store.

Sanders: A Legacy of Ambition and Dedication

According to family accounts, Sanders demonstrated a strong commitment towards his education. “Right before he died, he was one week away from going to grad school,” said Felicia, his mother. The opportunity to further his education was abruptly denied due to the tragic event, leading to a despondent situation for the family.

Honoring Sanders through The Pursuit of Education

Keeping Sanders’ commitment to education alive, the proceeds from the race subsequently benefit Race 4 Achievement. The organization aims at providing scholarships to local minority students. Race 4 Achievement co-founder Dominique Gray said, “It’s all for him, because that’s the type of person Tywanza was”. The race not only honors Sanders’ memory but also turns a tragic event into a triumphant cause by promoting education and inclusivity.

Local Community’s Astounding Response

Gray further added, “What happened in June of 2015 resonated with everybody in the Charleston area, so to be able to give back and turn tragedy into triumph is the key message here.” The community’s overwhelming response is a testament to their resilience and unity, turning a day of remembrance into a beacon of hope for future generations.

How to Apply for the Scholarships

Interested students willing to apply for the scholarships provided by Race 4 Achievement can access all relevant information on their official website at https://race4achievement.org/

A New Dawn of Hope and Unity

The #Race4Wanza Doughnut Dash 5K proves that community unity can turn tragic losses into a source of motivation and hope. Harnessing a shared sense of purpose, the Charleston community not only honors the legacy of Tywanza Sanders but also transforms a tragedy into a cause for a brighter future by advocating for education and providing opportunities for local minority students.