by Tecumseh MacGuigan

The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex Foundation is setting out to make their Bowl For Kids Sake event the most successful yet.

Last year’s event had over 800 bowlers and raked in $45,000. The event started as bowling for Big Brothers over 40 years ago and has since evolved into the organization’s largest annual event.

The event is sponsored by 46 corporate teams and several individual teams, and takes place at REVS Rose Bowl Feb 22, 28 and March 1. Rose Bowl also has teams in the event.

“I think this is a great event,” said Gail McIntosh, a Rose Bowl employee. “Children in need are benefiting, and awareness is being raised. We have four squads in the event and are excited to see who else is coming out.”

Hayley Morgan is the foundation’s executive director and is in charge of managing the event. She says the amount of support in Windsor and Essex County is inspirational and gives her hope that the event will run smoothly for years. Most of all, she believes that events like this will raise awareness of the foundation and help more children.

“The kids we have are proud to be members,” said Morgan. “My children are in the program and every week they look forward to Sunday when they get to see their Big Brothers. Most people don’t know that this program isn’t just for lower income families. Any child who is lacking a parental figure can join our foundation and receive the quality man-to-man and woman-to-woman time needed to grow up happily.”

Nearly 900 bowlers are expected to show up over the course of the three days. An estimated $18,000 was raised in last week’s event and the goal of $45,000 is expected to be exceeded. While all spots have been taken in this event, Big Brothers and Sisters have several events throughout the year and always welcome community support. For more info on Big Brothers and Sisters, visit their website at www.bigbrothersbigsisterswe.ca