MOUNT FOREST – The Big Brothers Big Sisters North Wellington (BBBSBW) Bowl for Kids campaign kicked off on Feb. 5, with 191 bowlers from Minto and Mapleton raising $15,788 on day one.
The event, the organization’s major annual fundraiser, was held in person for the first time since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was so nice to finally get to do this in person and see all your familiar faces,” said fundraising coordinator Terry Dykeman during a kick-off ceremony on Sunday morning at the Mount Forest Bowling Centre.
“Our theme this year is thankfulness. And we are truly thankful for all of you who support Big Brothers and Sisters and come out to bowl.
“And we also are very appreciative of all our volunteers. We have our volunteer mentors who give up their time every day and work with our children and youth in the community.”
The Big Brothers Big Sisters North Wellington (BBBSBW) Bowl for Kids campaign kicked off on Feb. 5, with 191 bowlers from Minto and Mapleton raising $15,788 on day one. A kick-off ceremony was held on Feb. 5 at the Mount Forest Bowling Centre. Photo by Patrick Raftis
Dykeman also recognized the work of volunteers on the organizing committee.
“Without them this event wouldn’t be able to happen,” she stated.
“I just want to say thank you to Big Brothers Big Sisters for not only hosting this event, but for all you do in the community for young people,” said Perth-Wellington MP John Nater.
Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae also thanked BBBSNW for its efforts.
“The mentorship that you provide children and students and youth in our area is vital, especially coming out of the pandemic. And I know your services are very needed,” said Rae.
“We certainly appreciate …. all your hard work and all your volunteers for Big Brothers, Big Brothers Big Sisters of north Wellington every year,” said Minto Mayor Dave Turton.
“I’m so happy to be here today to once again do a little bit of bowling and to celebrate Big Brothers Big Sisters and their kick-off to the bowling for dollars as I like to say,” said Mapleton Mayor Gregg Davidson.
Bowl for Kids – Big Brothers Big Sisters North Wellington participants joined with local officials and BBBSNW executive director Marianne Christie, far right, at the kick-off for the 2023 Bowl for Kids fundraiser at the Mount Forest Bowling Centre on Feb. 5.
Photo by Patrick Raftis
BBBSNW executive director Marianne Christie said the organization has been offering mentoring services in the northern portion of Wellington County for close to 50 years.
“The funds raised through Bowl for Kids are used to provide the highest quality mentoring services in our community. It supports our program requirements, as well as ongoing support of children and their families,” said Christie.
“The kids in our program, they experience new opportunities and learn new skills.
“They develop responsible decision-making skills, social awareness, self awareness and self management, positive identity, mental health, social inclusion and empowerment.
“They show a desire to learn and demonstrate the motivation to graduate high school to pursue post secondary education and have a career.”
Christie said everyone who gets involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters “has a positive story to share.
“Some matches are physically active and join walks and runs and tough mud challenges,” she explained.
“Some matches build wood projects or learn how to fix things. Some travel to nearby towns and enjoy community activities and some learn to cook and bake and share their goodies with their family and friends.
“But whatever the matches decide to do, the idea is enjoying the activity and being together. Our mentors are role models and offer support and encouragement to their match. They’re committed to making a difference in a child’s life.”
Christie noted the organization has received a high number of referrals in the last few years.
“So we are always looking for new volunteer mentors and welcome them to be part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters family,” she noted.
To get involved with BBBSNW call 519-323-4273 or email marianne.christie@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca to arrange an appointment.
The Mount Forest community Bowl for Kids day is on Feb. 26 and the Arthur-Alma community bowls on March 5.
Anyone interested in bowling on either community day, or anyone seeking more information, is urged to email teri.dykeman@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca.
