WILTON – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western Maine held a Franklin County Bowl-For-Kid’s-Sake fund-raiser at Meadow Lanes Bowling Center on March 19 and 20. The successful, event allowed individuals and businesses to have fun while giving something back to the community.

Many area businesses participated through donations or by sponsoring bowling teams. Area residents also showed their support by collecting or donating funds of their own or volunteering to help. Area high school students and University of Maine at Farmington students volunteered to assist with the bowling event.

Mount Blue High School senior Jennica Wyman volunteered her time and found herself cheering on bowlers. “It was awesome. I thought it would be boring, but it turned out to be a great learning experience. It felt good to know that it was all for a good cause.”

Jenn Reynolds is in her last year of a teaching major at the UMF campus. The future teacher said, “I thought it was wonderful how much fun everyone was having, while raising money for such a great cause. It was a great turnout for a first-time event and it was a success. I can see this event happening for many years to come. I’m glad I had the chance to participate. As a future teacher, I believe that it is very important for children to have mentors and positive influences in their lives … after all, they are our future.”

Funds raised provide guidance and support to at-risk children through the Youth Mentoring Program and go toward matching children with Big Brothers and Big Sisters.

Nancy Carpenter, event director, said, “The show of support is greatly appreciated and will help sustain and hopefully expand youth mentoring in this area.”

Anyone interested in donating or in signing up to be a big brother or big sister can call Carpenter at 562-8193 or e-mail her at nancarp@megalink.net.