Thanks to a concerted effort by a wonderful community of supporters, the 14th annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake at Autumn Lanes was a huge success. This year’s event was truly a fun celebration of all who rallied to show support for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

A combination of sponsors and donors, bowlers and volunteers, Bigs and Littles, all came together to generate such success. Sponsors generously covered all costs for the event, allowing all remaining funds raised to go directly to Big Brothers Big Sisters programs. Some sponsors chose to give teams of Bigs and Littles the opportunity to bowl for free, creating more good memories for them to treasure.

Strike sponsor for the event was the Congregational Church of Tryon that fielded two teams, including young members from their Communion class. At the Spare level, CooperRiis has served as a sponsor annually to support BBBS. Pin sponsors included Terry Ackerman, American Legion Polk Memorial Post 250, Rob Fuller, Lichty Guitars, Morning Glory Farm, Bailey & Elizabeth Nager, and Jennifer & Roger Smith. Team sponsors were Owens Pharmacy, Freehold Financial Group, Jim Peterman Quartet, Musselwhite Electric, Blake Smyth, and Tryon Estates/ACTS, in addition to many Lane sponsors. All sponsors and donors were acknowledged at the event for their generosity.

Door prizes were graciously contributed by businesses, artists, and other individuals in Polk County and Landrum. Every participant was eligible to receive a donated door prize, and those who raised the most funds through pledges won special awards.

True to form, dear friend Becky Kennedy rose to the occasion and outdid her previous accomplishments by raising more than $4,000 in pledges for her team representing the Polk County Democratic Women. Becky has consistently increased the level of funds she raises each year of her involvement with Bowl for Kids’ Sake. Her dedication and determination are remarkable, as she collected donations from nearly sixty individuals and businesses. She and members of “The BOWLed & the Beautiful” team altogether raised over $5,000 and each was awarded a gift basket of donated goodies, including health foods, wine, tea, books, gift certificates to area restaurants, and a variety of other items.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is grateful to be a part of such a supportive community that helps sustain their unique services for area children. BBBS mentoring programs are proven to be effective in helping children overcome obstacles and make better choices, leading to improvements in academic performance, school attendance, self-confidence, relationships and behaviors. The goal is to nurture these children and help set them on the path to become responsible productive adults. When children benefit from a mentoring experience, the families, schools, and community are all impacted in a positive way.   

Volunteers are encouraged to apply and eligible children may be enrolled at any time. For more info, please contact BBBS at 828-859-9230, 899-9699, or polk@bbbswnc.org.

– submitted by Karen Dacey