BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS'S BOWL FOR KIDS' SAKE IS BACK

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara is encouraging people to put on their bowling shoes and come out for some competitive fun for a good cause.

The Tim Hortons' Bowl For Kids' Sake fundraising event supports Big Brothers Big Sisters, allowing for kids in Niagara to receive mentorship and realize their full potential.

"Children and youth with mentors are more likely to graduate high school, go to university, secure full-time employment, and have on average higher incomes," Graybiel explained.

The group has a fundraising goal of $130,000 for this event, enough money to give more than 100 children the opportunity to be paired with a mentor for the next year.

"With your support we are sure we can meet our goal and move children off of the wait list and into life changing mentorship," said Erin Graybiel with Big Brothers Big Sisters Niagara.

MPP Wayne Gates, Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin, and Coun. Wayne Olson all attended the kickoff, taking some time to practise their bowling skills before the big event.

Gates spoke about the importance of organizations like this helping to give young people in poverty, like he was as a child, a hand up.

"The more that we're helping young people, the better it is going to be," said Gates.

"Even with how I started out to become an MPP. And I think that's what happens when you get to learn from that love, show them compassion, show that friends somebody they can talk to you as they grow up."

Bowling will take place at Parkway Social in St. Catharines and Cataract Bowl in Niagara Falls on Feb. 25 at 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m. and on Feb. 28 in St. Catharines at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Teams of up to six bowlers need to raise at least $500 as a group in order to participate in the event.

The team who raises the most money before the event will receive a special VIP bowling experience.

This year has the theme of "night at the movies," with teams encouraged to dress up and show off their most creative costumes for

a chance to win a prize.

So far 12 teams have signed up to participate in the event and have already raised around 28 per cent of

the total goal.

Anyone wishing to learn more about the event, or to register, can do so at bbbsinniagara.ca.