April 18, 2007
BOWL FOR KIDS SAKE EVENT IN LANGLEY

On March 31 the Willowbrook Lanes in Langley were overrun by an unruly group dressed in poodle skirts, leather jackets, T-shirts and even a ducktail or two. But it wasn't a case of gang activity or teens up to no good. No, this was a group of people who, along with their 1950s-themed costumes, were wearing bowling shoes, and they were delivering pledges for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley. Teams from local business and community organizations were there to bowl for kids' sake. Our local constituency office even fielded a team that managed a respectable showing, in spite of my own participation.

Bowl for Kids Sake is part of a national initiative that has become Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley's largest and most important fundraising event. Those that come out to support Big Brothers Big Sisters know the positive impact that these programs have on our community.

The impact of mentoring on children and youth is well known, but the impact on the mentor, the big brothers or big sisters themselves, is what keeps volunteers involved year after year. Those who volunteer as in-school mentors report all sorts of benefits to their own well-being. They have an improved attitude at work. They learn about themselves. They feel better about themselves. For those whose employers are active in the program, they feel proud to work for a company that cares.

The work of Big Brothers Big Sisters is a valuable investment in the well-being of children and youth and a huge contribution to the well-being of everyone in the community. The support of all those who bowl for kids' sake is an essential part of ensuring the ongoing success of mentoring programs throughout Langley, raising over $40,000 this year.

To Barbara Scott and the volunteers and participants who made this event possible, I want us all to say thank you for their hard work and dedication in support of the children and youth of Langley.