Some things are too important to lose - Lion's Den Karate is one of them. More than a school, it is a family. For decades, they have helped our children build confidence and character. Now, the dojo is at risk of closing its doors. Please help us preserve this irreplaceable asset to our community! Read our full story below...

CALL TO ACTION:

St. Augustine is at risk of losing Lion's Den Karate, a pillar of our community for over 20 years. We urgently need your help!

If you've ever had a place that shaped you, supported you, or felt like home, then you understand what is at stake.

THE LION'S DEN DIFFERENCE:

Unlike businesses that come and go, generations of kids have grown up on the mats at Lion's Den.

Here, students learn more than kicks and punches - they learn lessons that last a lifetime. Long after class ends and belts are earned, what remains is the character built.

While Lion's Den is home to the only competitive karate team in St. Augustine, what sets it apart cannot be measured in trophies or medals. Ask anyone here and they will tell you - this place changes lives.

A FAMILY IN CRISIS:

Due to rising costs and redevelopment, Lion's Den is facing potential closure after 20 years of service. The dojo is being forced out of its space and must urgently relocate. With this change come additional expenses, including moving fees, build-outs costs, and a large deposit.

At the same time, Lion's Den owners, Mr. Jose and Ms. Barbara, have been quietly navigating personal hardships. In recent months, they have courageously faced Ms. Barbara's breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, which brought unforeseen medical expenses.

Through it all, they have continued to show up - with strength, grace, and unwavering dedication.

Now, we show up for them.

HOW TO HELP:

Mr. Jose and Ms. Barbara never ask for help so, we are asking for them.

Our immediate hope is to secure a new home for Lion's Den and offset relocation costs. Regardless of the outcome, every dollar raised will go directly to supporting Mr. Jose and Ms. Barbara during this critical time.

No donation is too small. If you are unable to give, sharing this campaign can make all the difference.

Thank you for helping us preserve their legacy, and give back to those who have given so much.

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If you do not have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Jose and Ms. Barbara, we would love to introduce you ...

THE HEART OF THE DOJO:

At the heart of our beloved Lion's Den are its owners, Mr. Jose and Ms. Barbara.

Mr. Jose, a proud military veteran and sixth-degree black belt, leads with quiet strength, humor, and unwavering integrity. He is the kind of mentor every parent hopes their children will have - steady, kind, and deeply invested in every student. He knows firsthand how life-changing martial arts can be, and he has dedicated his life to passing that gift on to others. Step into the dojo and you'll be greeted with his warm hug or handshake - every time. If you're lucky, you might even catch one of his famous dad jokes. Tell him you'll be back and, with a smile, he'll tell you not to threaten him ;) In addition to his work at Lion's Den, Mr. Jose coaches elite athletes for Team USA, and is a respected member of the broader martial arts community.

Ms. Barbara, a black belt and former school teacher, is the nurturing spirit behind Lion's Den. Through the afterschool program, she has created a space where kids feel safe, seen, and deeply cared for. To her, every child is "her kid" - and you feel that the moment you meet her. She acts as a surrogate parent when we cannot be there. With her bright smile and calming presence, Ms. Barbara is the embodiment of a warm hug.

Together, they have built more than a school - they have built a family and a legacy. Because of them, Lion's Den is irreplaceable.

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