HUMBOLDT — According to Jodie Hergott, community development co-ordinator with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Humboldt, their annual bowling fundraiser is going to look and feel a little different this year, but the games will go on.
Unlike with previous years, participants will each be given two options: in-person bowling at Kemway Lanes or virtual bowling, a game which can be found on the BBBS of Humboldt’s website.
“There’s an app that we have access to, and all the instructions are there,” Hergott said.
“You can still participate from the comfort of your office chair or perhaps school or even from your couch at home and have fun and raise a little money for a good cause.”
Hergott said the event is tailored for anyone to participate in, with some participants in previous years ranging from four or five to seniors in the community.
To participate, people can collect pledge forms on their website at humboldt.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/bfks-2021/.
Within the instructions for virtual participation, there is a link participants can follow on any device to access the online game.
“Unfortunately the program doesn’t save your score but you can screenshot it, of course, and use it for bragging rights.”
In addition to bowling, Hergott said that as more people shift to outdoor activities, BBBS is leaving the option open for them to make a unique personal challenge.
“If they want to do a challenge for cross-country skiing, or use the crokicurl at Civic Park or perhaps skating somewhere – just an outdoor activity, they can certainly tailor the pledge forms to meet their activities.”
This will be the 41th Bowl for Kids’ Sake put on by the Humboldt chapter, with it serving as their premier fundraising event for the organization each year.
This year’s goal is to raise $10,000.
“It’s used for keeping our program going and being able to recruit more mentors to support our current matches and families,” Hergott said. “We also train our volunteers and we coach our matches not just at the beginning, but throughout their match they are supported.”
As of Jan. 21, there are 26 youth in Humboldt on the BBBS waitlist.
Bowl for Kids’ Sake will take place from Feb. 1 to 21.
While bowling at Kemway Lanes, COVID-19 protocols and distancing are expected to be followed.
To book a session at the alley, people can call 306-682-2344.
Hergott said that this year the event has been extended to a three-week period from their usual one week to allow for more time to participate.
BBBS of Humboldt are including prizes for team captains, best dressed individual following this year’s theme of “Circus, Circus”, best dressed team, highest adult pledge earner, highest youth pledge earner, highest online fundraising and an entry into a draw for every $100 raised.
The organization is asking for a minimum of $25 in donations or pledges per participant, if possible.
