Friends Fundraising For Scholarship To Honor Beloved Faith Leader

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — When beloved Rev. Dr. Marvin Dozier died in June, hearts were broken across the East End.

Rev. Dozier, who lived in Southampton and was the longtime pastor of the Unity Baptist Church in Mattituck, touched countless lives — and now, a scholarship fund has been created to help keep his legacy alive forever.

A GoFundMe, Rev. Marvin Dozier SYA Scholarship, was created by Andrea Dozier and has raised $1,345 of its $5,000 goal so far.

"The Southampton Youth Association, Inc. has been a pillar organization in the community for 49 years," she wrote. "As we enter our 50th year, we celebrate the fun programming that we provide for kids, the various employment opportunities we offer for youth and adults, and the character development that has resulted from our efforts and leadership."

This year, she added, "We unfortunately lost our devout leader, Rev. Dr. Marvin Dozier. While we miss him dearly, we know that the best way to honor him is to continue to live out his legacy."

That's why, Dozier said, a scholarship will be greated. "The Rev. Marvin Dozier Character and Community Scholarship will be given to two to three Southampton High School seniors who have demonstrated strong character skills and growth and a commitment to the community through service," she said. "Rev. Dozier was a lifelong learner and an advocate for higher education and educational equity. Therefore, it is only appropriate that this scholarship goes towards the students' higher education and that the community steps in to support youth who have the potential to better our community and the world."

To donate, click here.

Photo courtesy GoFundMe.