A local martial arts instructor is hosting a fundraiser to support Michael Garlon Hospital's new health center.
“I always said I wanted to do that,” Emanoel Manolakakis said. “If I can give something back to the hospital, I will.”
Mr. Manolakakis is the owner and instructor of Fight Club, a mixed martial arts (MMA) facility located at 401 Donlands Avenue. The fundraiser will be held there April 20 from 1 to 4 p.m.
At the fundraiser celebrating Fight Club's 20th anniversary, Manolakakis will teach people effective breathing techniques, movements that make you feel good and heal your body, and massage techniques. He said he wants everyone to go away feeling good about themselves.
Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online. You can purchase tickets and attend the event here.
“All proceeds will go to the hospital,” Manolakakis said. “There are so many great things about this club.”
Emily Byrd, annual program manager for the Michael Garlon Hospital Foundation, said the fundraiser would be a big help.
“We are so grateful for this fundraiser and the community support for the hospital,” she said.
Byrd noted that federal funding doesn't necessarily cover all of a hospital's costs, so donations from individuals and fundraisers support the hospital's needs.
Manolakakis wants people to understand that there are ways to support the community in which you live.
“This is our local hospital,” he said.
“Giving back to the community in some way should be a part of all of us.”
His previous fundraising efforts include raising money for cancer research and helping raise money for gaming consoles for people in need.
