The Kareem Demian Coach K Community Award is presented annually by One Day to Remember to an individual who exemplifies Kareem’s legacy: someone who leads with compassion, radiates positivity, and “makes it happen, happen” for the One Day to Remember community that meant so much to him.
Kareem, lovingly known to many as Coach K, embodied kindness, integrity, and connection in everything he did. Whether coaching, working, playing sports, or simply spending time with family and friends, Kareem had a gift for making everyone feel seen, valued, and included.
Kareem first came to One Day to Remember as a recipient in 2023 and quickly became one of our most passionate ambassadors, sharing his story with honesty, lifting up other families, and reminding us all how powerful community can be. To his sons, Max and Dexter, he was someone who cared deeply for everyone he met. To his family, he was a friend to all, someone whose warmth, authenticity, and altruistic nature left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He was the ultimate motivator and one who believed in “making it happen, happen,” a phrase that perfectly captured his drive, positivity, and commitment to others. His positive attitude was ever-present, even in difficult moments, and lifted everyone around him.
Honoring the Legacy of Coach K
The Kareem Demian Coach K Community Award celebrates individuals who embody the kindness, positivity, and unwavering commitment to others that defined Kareem’s life.
This year, One Day to Remember is proud to recognize three honorees who carry forward Coach K’s legacy through their compassion, generosity, and dedication to making a difference in the lives of families facing cancer.
Each honoree represents the spirit of community Kareem believed in so deeply—showing up for others, creating meaningful connections, and finding ways to “make it happen, happen.”
Ambassador Honoree
The Ummer Family
Recognizing a family that embodies the spirit of Coach K through kindness, positivity, and meaningful connections. The Ummer Family represents the strength of community and the lasting impact of lifting others up.
Volunteer Honoree
Tom
Honoring a volunteer who goes above and beyond to make a difference. Through generosity, compassion, and a willingness to show up for others, Tom embodies Coach K’s belief in “making it happen, happen.”
Photographer Honoree
Kyle Rose Photography
Celebrating a photographer who helps preserve the moments that matter most. Through his time, talent, and dedication to One Day to Remember families, Kyle reflects Coach K’s legacy of creating meaningful connections and lasting memories.
Presented annually at One Day to Remember’s Walk to Remember, the Kareem Demian Coach K Community Award honors individuals who embody Kareem’s legacy of kindness, positivity, and unwavering dedication to others.
The award recognizes three members of the One Day to Remember community—an ambassador family, a volunteer, and a photographer—whose compassion, generosity, and commitment to meaningful connections reflect the spirit of Coach K.
Each year, recipients are celebrated at the One Day Walk to Remember, where families, friends, and supporters come together to honor those facing cancer, remember loved ones, and recognize the power of community.
Through this award, Kareem’s belief in lifting others up, making everyone feel valued, and “making it happen, happen” continues to inspire the One Day to Remember community and the lasting impact we can make together.