By Kris Goracke

Reporter

In May 2010, tragedy struck the Botzet family when they lost their daughter, Kortni, as she was over heated in a hot tub. Guided by her faith, Kortni’s mother, Nicole, was determined that no other family should endure such pain and loss.

“We wanted to find a way to keep Kortni’s memory alive, and so we started Kortni’s PATH and a memorial scholarship fund in her name,” Nicole explained. At the time of the accident, Kortni was in kindergarten. Over the next 10 years, the family raised money through 5 Ks and silent auctions, ultimately awarding $120,000 in scholarships to Kortni’s graduating class of 2022.

With the scholarship mission complete, Nicole began searching for what was next. “I felt God tugging my heart with a concept of life jackets. And so, we did a life jacket giveaway. We had 120 life jackets that we gave away, and what broke my heart is we still had people standing in line wanting a life jacket,” Nicole recalled.

Though uncertain of her next steps, Nicole’s journey continued. One day, she received a photo from a friend in Alaska showing a box of life jackets available for anyone to take and use. “My mom, who never looks at Facebook, happened to come over that day and commented about the Alaskan photo and asked if that was something I was going to do. I knew then that was my sign from God directing my path,” explained Nicole.

In the summer of 2024, Nicole’s idea became a reality. Kortni’s Kloset launched seven locations throughout the Douglas County area, inviting anyone needing a life jacket to take one for a day, a year, or longer.

Lake Minnewaska is now home to two of the newest Kortni’s Kloset additions—one at Starbuck City Beach and the other at Glenwood City Beach. This project was brought to the Glenwood City Council meeting this last December and then to the Starbuck City Council meeting in January.  Without any hesitation, both City Councils unanimously approved adding them to each City Beach.  The closets provide life jackets in various youth to adult sizes for anyone to take, keep, use, or return.

Each closet will be stocked with 16 life jackets in different sizes. “We are helping create a brighter future for kids in our local community,” Nicole said. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in Minnesota. All donations will go directly into the fund for Kortni’s PATH. Any donations are welcome as checks payable to Kortni’s PATH. These donations can be sent to P.O. Box 13, Carlos, MN 56319.  The organization also accepts PayPal (kortnispath@gmail.com ) or Venmo (@KortnisPATH).

Kortni’s Kloset also welcomes donations of Coast Guard-approved life Jackets, new or gently used. “I always say if it is a life jacket you would put on your child or grandchild, then it is fit for donation,” Nicole emphasized. Life jackets of all sizes are available in Kortni’s Kloset, not just for children but also for adults. “We want everyone to be safe on the water,” Nicole said.

Information below was taken from Kortni’s Path website: 

•Importance of Life Jackets:

Vital for water safety, especially for non-swimmers or weak swimmers. Can prevent drowning in emergencies.

•Choosing the Right Life Jacket:

Select the appropriate type based on activity (boating, kayaking, etc.). Ensure it is approved by relevant safety standards (e.g., US Coast Guard).

•Proper Fit:

Check size and weight recommendations on the label. Adjust straps to ensure a snug fit without restricting movement. Lift the life jacket by the shoulders; it should not slip above the wearer’s ears. Make sure it does not ride up when in the water.

•Wearing Instructions:

Always wear the life jacket with all straps properly secured. Fasten zippers or buckles according to manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure it covers the chest and fits snugly around the torso.

•Additional Safety Tips:

Always wear a life jacket when boating or participating in water activities, regardless of swimming ability. Educate all passengers and participants about the location and proper use of life jackets. Participate in boating safety courses to learn more about proper life jacket use and other safety practices.