The 26th annual Bowl for Kids for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Innisfail is in its final stages of preparation to raise at least $30,000.
The annual local event on March 3 coincides with the 100th anniversary of the national organization, which began a century ago in Toronto to provide mentoring programs in more than 1,000 Canadian communities.
The local Bowl for Kids event, which is being held this year at Innisfail Bowling Lanes, raised just more than $30,000 last year.
Linda Doering, program assistant for the local agency, said organizers are still accepting donations. She said four lanes for the all-day event have attracted sponsors. Organizers are still looking for four more, said Doering.
Last year the event attracted 48 teams of four players but Doering said the goal this year is to reach 64.
ìWe are looking for more than $30,000 this year,î said Doering. ìIf we get all 64 teams we could easily surpass $30,000. We were down in teams in the past and we would like to increase that this year. We would like to fill the bowling alley for all eight sessions.î
She said the money raised will go into improving the organization's services and programs for the 80 families the agency serves in Innisfail, Bowden, Penhold and Spruce View.
She said the agency is now in the process of revamping its services and programs, which now include Summer Fun, Kids 'n' Kops, Go Girls and Game On.
In the meantime, the Bowl for Kids event, which so far has attracted almost 30 sponsors, is still accepting registrations for more teams. Pledge sheets will be given to each team member to collect donations. A charitable receipt will be given to any person or group that makes a donation.
For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Innisfail, or to inquire about registering a team for the March 3 Bowl for Kids event, call 403-227-6766.
"We were down in teams in the past and we would like to increase that this year." Linda Doering, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Innisfail
