The Joe Raylyanu Memorial Volleyball Tournament is hosted by the Raylyanu family in remembrance of their son and brother Joseph, who passed away in 2023.

This year marks the third tournament hosted in his memory. As in previous years, the proceeds from the tournament are donated to a charitable organization chosen by Joseph’s family.

In 2023, the Raylyanu family was able to make a donation to SPARC, School-Parks Are Reaching Communities, where Joseph was involved during the summers.  Joe spent time coaching, refereeing and teaching kids how to play various sports, such as basketball and volleyball. He also took part in the childcare program where he would play sports, make crafts, watch movies, participate in water fights, teach card games and read books to the children.

In 2024, the Raylyanu family chose to donate the proceeds from the tournament to Convoy of Hope, a faith-based organization with a driving passion to feed the world. Joe spent many Tuesday evenings volunteering alongside family and friends. He sorted and packed food, filled bags with groceries and sorted and folded clothing. His enthusiasm for helping others was infectious.

This year, Joseph’s family has chosen to donate in his memory to Ozark’s Food Harvest. Joseph participated multiple times in the annual food drive that would take place on Thanksgiving morning. He woke up early to collect cans and food donations along with other family members and friends.  Some of the best memories took place on those cold, blustery mornings.

Helping others was a part of integral part of how Joesph lived out his life here on Earth. We hope to be a small part of continuing that tradition. Thank you for your support throughout the years and joining us to help others, just like joseph would have.