Warriors Way shares mission with Lima Rotary
Whether it's bladesmithing, blacksmithing, archery or being together under a roof sharing the same goal, Warriors Way members grow together through peer support.
"Our programs serve people who are often at a breaking point," said David Bates, the founder of Warriors Way, during Monday's meeting of the Lima Rotary Club at Veterans Memorial Civic Center. "Instead of watching them fall through the cracks, we teach them to rebuild and start with their own two hands."
A veteran himself, Bates started forging knives in 2016 as a hobby to relieve stress from serving three tours in Iraq from 2006 to 2012.
Bates spoke about his traumatic experiences and how the idea of Warriors Way came about after he persevered through multiple life-threatening obstacles.
"That just strengthened my resolve and what I want to do with my life," Bates said about a vehicle fire he put out after making sure those around him were safe.
According to data from Bates, 44 percent of veterans face challenges when reintegrating into society and are at a significantly higher risk of suicide during this period.
Warriors Way served nearly 800 individuals in 2024, 163 of whom were age 6 through 18.
The organization hopes to grow through more collaboration and events continuing to shine a light on its mission. Warriors Way is located at 3865 S. Dixie Highway, Lima.
"We have so many connections based on our mission, and our mission is to solely serve those who have served us and that are currently serving us," said Jeffrey Dauterman, the chief marketing officer of Warriors Way. "It is to give youth something to look forward to."
Dauterman spoke highly of the youth involved in the organization.
"They do not fit into the conventional sports world or whatever the popular thing that is going in the community," Dauterman said. "These are the ones that are the quietest."
Looking to the future, Warriors Way is seeking collaboration with local youth centers.
"We hope that youth also comes through our partnership with the Bradfield (Community) Center and the Boys & Girls Club of America," Bates said.
Warriors Way is also looking to help nonviolent first-time offenders.
"We're also working with the Hardin County courts and the sheriff's department, preparing to serve nonviolent, first-time offenders instead of letting these individuals disappear into a system," Bates said.
The organization encouraged Rotarians to donate and support the mission. Classes will always be free, Bates said.
Reach Cade Higgins at 567-242-0351
Featured Local Savings
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
42 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Is It Rude Or Helpful To Bring In Your Neighbor's Trash Can?
If your neighbor's trash can has been sitting at the curb for days, it may be tempting to take care of the problem yourself. The impulse is understandable if your neighbor's trash is a constant eyesore or is blocking street parking. In another scenario, if you always park your trash cans side by side, you may want to bring your neighbor's trash can in as a favor. The thing is, your neighbor might see things differently or even perceive your actions as rude. We have a few tips on how to handle your neighbor's trash can—just don't bring it in without their permission. Why You Shouldn't Bring In Your Neighbor's Trash Can Even if you have the best intentions, you should leave your neighbor's trash can alone if they haven't given you permission to bring it in. You'd have to go trudging on their property to return it, which some may (rightly) consider trespassing. Always ask before touching bins or any other property that belongs to your neighbors. This doesn't mean you're helpless to act in the face of an unsightly, smelly trash can that's parked for days at the curb. Here's what to do. Investigate Local Ordinances Or HOA Rules Whether you live in a homeowners association or not, your HOA or city probably has rules about when you can put trash bins at the curb and how long they can remain there after trash collection. Double-check those HOA rules or ordinances, but keep that information in your back pocket for now rather than starting off with a confrontation with your neighbor. Offer To Help Them Out The next time you catch your neighbor outdoors, you can casually offer to bring both cans in on trash day. Conversely, if they tend to put their cans out days in advance, you could offer to bring both to the curb the night before trash pickup. While you're talking, you just might find out something that explains the behavior and find some empathy. A neighbor with mobility issues may be relying on a family member to come by, for instance, and gladly accept your help. A neighbor who is frequently out of town or works odd shifts could also appreciate your offer to bring in their trash can. Ask Nicely If you'd rather not drag your neighbor's trash can from the curb or don't think an offer will be well-received, ask politely if they could bring it in sooner. If they seem surprised, this is when that knowledge about trash container rules may come in handy. Then give your neighbors a little time to change their habits before you take things further. Ask For Help We generally like to keep things friendly with our neighbors, but sometimes it helps to have someone else deliver the message. If all else fails, you can contact your HOA or city for help with enforcing the rules. They can contact your neighbor with a warning—preferably while keeping you out of it. Read the original article on Southern Living Solve the daily Crossword
News24
4 hours ago
- News24
MPs propose time limit to question witnesses before committee probing Mkhwanazi's allegations
Be among those who shape the future with knowledge. Uncover exclusive stories that captivate your mind and heart with our FREE 14-day subscription trial. Dive into a world of inspiration, learning, and empowerment. You can only trial once.
Washington Post
5 hours ago
- Washington Post
Oaxacan family welcomes DACA recipient back to Mexico
World Oaxacan family welcomes DACA recipient back to Mexico August 18, 2025 | 1:33 PM GMT Lidia Sánchez was welcomed home in Oaxaca with a community lunch. She was a DACA recipient in L.A. and moved back with her three kids and mother-in-law.
