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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas (BBBSCA) is gearing up for its 26th annual Bowl for Kids' Sake outings this month. The event is a fundraiser where individuals, families and businesses lend their support to the work that Big Brothers Big Sisters does in the community.

To participate, a group of four to five individuals form a team that can consist of families, friends, co-workers, church members, etc. Each team is asked to raise a minimum of $500 (or $100 as an individual) in donations from friends, family and co-workers.

To celebrate the money raised by the teams, BBBSCA will host bowling celebration nights in the Feb. 10, 17 and 18 at Professor Bowl in Little Rock. In the meantime, individuals and teams are registering and raising money now.

A Big Impact

Bowl for Kids' Sake event co-chair Michael Irvin urges everyone in the community -- not just businesses, but families, clubs and church groups, too -- to participate in this unique event that inspires participants to raise money in a fun way for BBBSCA’s commendable cause.

“This organization makes such a direct, positive impact in the lives of so many children right here in central Arkansas,” Irvin said. “I can’t tell you how many kids there are that just need someone positive in their lives to motivate them and to help them grow.”

His co-chair John Tullos agrees. “This organization is very instrumental in young people’s lives. There are  many studies out that prove that 'Little’s' have a greater chance of not getting involved with drugs and violence. It also proves that they will continue their education with higher grades.”

‘Strike' Up the Cause

It’s for these reasons that so many in the community enjoy this family-friendly fundraiser each year. Those who can't form their own team, however, can still participate as a single on the Big Brothers Big Sisters open bowling team or can help by making a donation to Bowl for Kids' Sake.

“This event is one of only two fundraisers that the BBBSCA staff put on,” Tullos said. “Therefore, it’s crucial to the well being of the Big Brother Big Sister program in central Arkansas.”

All proceeds from this event allow BBBSCA to continue providing children facing adversity with strong and enduring one-on-one relationships that change their lives for the better forever.

“It takes about $1,000 to match one child with a 'Big,' and there is a waiting list of kids in our communities wanting to be matched with someone they can look up to -- someone who will provide a positive influence in their lives,” Irvin said. “It is our goal at BBBSCA to match every child who wants or needs a Big. Every dollar raised through this fundraiser brings us closer to helping that child who’s next in line.”

How to Register or Donate

To register a team, make a donation or get more information visit BowlForKids2012.Kintera.org or call (501) 374-6661.