2021 Bowl for Kids Recap
That’s a wrap! Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Bowl for Kids movie-themed fundraiser is in the can. The virtual event raised over $86,000 to match more kids with adult mentors.
This year’s special anniversary edition featured the theme Tinseltown: The Golden Age of Hollywood, in honor of BBBS’ 50th year of serving kids in Central Texas. There was plenty of star power as many people worked to make the event a success.
“We weren’t able to hold our normal in-person bowling event this year, but we are so excited that we will be able to fund 70 additional matches with funds raised. Our committee worked so hard in securing teams and sponsors, and we are so grateful to our awesome teams that returned and to the folks who joined us for the first time to help fundraise for our kids,” said Lauren Portley, BBBS Vice President of Development.
“The saying ‘It takes a village’, still rings true. It takes all of us to ensure that our services continue and that we serve the children of Central Texas for 50 more years. Heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make Bowl for Kids a success this year.”
Teams were not able to bowl in person, yet, but those that raised over $750 received vouchers to bowl at Highland Lanes on the date of their choice. Plus, they received prizes, t-shirts, and special perks. Teams that raised $1,250 or more, the cost to fund a mentoring relationship for a full year, also provided a match team made up of Bigs and Littles with a voucher to bowl, and they received extra prizes as well.
Prizes or not though, the teams and supporters for Bowl for Kids are there for the mission, as team leader Steve Chodorow points out. “First of all, congratulations on a successful Bowl for Kids event. I participate in Bowl for Kids because I believe in Big Brothers Big Sisters and the mentoring they provide for kids. This is my 30th year having a team. If it wasn’t important to me, I would have ‘bailed out’ years ago,” said Steve. “I’m looking forward to being able to once again actually bowl at an in-person BFK event, dress in the theme attire, and banter back and forth with my teammates. I’ve been so fortunate to have like-minded sponsors that believe in BBBS and support Steve’s Team.”
Another team leader, Nancy Reiter, points out that BFK is also a fun way to get the word out about the organization. “I love Bowl for Kids because it is a great opportunity to share the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters with friends and family,” said Nancy. “It is so important to remember the amazing work they do all year long.”
As a special treat, participants had the opportunity to “plus” their virtual BFK experience by holding special in-home Netflix parties and/or Movie Trivia parties that allowed for additional fun with friends and family while supporting BBBS at the same time. Two different types of Party Packs were also available for purchase. Party Packs included beer or gin provided by local breweries, popcorn, candy, BBBS swag, and Pizza Hut coupons.
Even though this year’s event was virtual, sponsors play an essential role in any Bowl for Kids success. 2021 Bowl for Kids sponsors included financial consulting firm RSM US LLP – the event’s Kingpin Sponsor, as well as ARM, Bluepoint Games, Highland Lanes, Austin Subaru, Anne & J.R. Carter, Denver Dunlap Real Estate, Guerra Underground, LLC, Cedar Crest Healthcare, and Wave.
We also want to thank our In-Kind sponsors Blue Owl Brewing, Pizza Hut, Revolution Spirits, and Tiff’s Treats.
The final scene clapboard may have sounded on the 2021 BFK event, but funds raised will make an impact on kids’ lives for generations. Thanks to everyone who helped make this year’s event a success.
