Big Brothers Big Sisters conducted its annual fundraiser Bowl for Kids’ Sake last Saturday with a turnout that proved to be disappointing compared to previous years.
Due to this year’s low turnout, the organization is considering abandoning the annual event for next year.
Mallory Ashford, director of events and corporate development for Big Brothers Big Sisters in Abilene, said only $300 was raised at this year’s Bowl for Kids’ Sake.
“College Bowl For Kids’ Sake had 30 participants on Nov. 15 from six to eight at Abilene Bowling Lanes,” she said. “Three teams were from Hardin-Simmons and two teams were from Abilene Christian University. Each team was asked to raise a goal of $400. The event raised $300 this year after costs.”
Last year’s event was much more successful, and showed a greater turnout, Ashford said.
“Eighty-five people participated last year with a total of 17 teams from Abilene Christian, Hardin-Simmons and McMurry,” she said. “Due to lack of participation and enthusiasm for this year’s event, BBBS will reconsider holding a College Bowl For Kids’ Sake in 2015.”
Though the turnout was less than expected, those who participated enjoyed themselves but were disappointed in attendance.
“I think it was a fun and enjoyable way to raise money for an organization that is trying to do something good for kids who deserve to have a better life,” said Josh Hollers, senior management major from Corpus Christi. “It seems like such an effortless, easy and fun way to raise money for charity. Surely students at a Christian college could give some of their time and a little money to raise money for such a good cause.”
Students weren’t the only people participating in the fundraiser. Jon Howell, owner and manager of Record Guys, showed up to support the organization as well.
“I had a great time at Bowl for Kids’ Sake, and I know it’s for a good cause,” Howell said.
Howell was upset to hear the event might not happen again.
“I was looking forward to next year’s event already,” he said.
Though Big Brothers Big Sisters may abandon Bowl for Kids’ Sake, the nonprofit has a similar event in the spring geared toward a wider audience. Community Bowl for Kids’ Sake, like its winter counterpart, also takes place at Abilene Bowling Lanes located on Ruidosa Avenue. The event is targeted to the whole community and businesses.
“Community Bowl for Kids’ Sake is much more successful,” Ashford said. “If we choose to not do Bowl For Kids’ Sake next year, we will probably combine the two.”
Students who wish to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters are encouraged to contact Mallory Ashford.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters would not be as successful in Abilene without our college volunteers,” Ashford said. “The agency hosts various events throughout the year requiring additional volunteers such as Run or Dye and Bike For Kids’ Sake.”
To volunteer at an event, students can contact Mallory Ashford at 325-674-3115 or mashford@bbbstx.org.
