Big Brothers Big Sisters arrrr after treasure

Arrrr you ready to be a pirate and support the Big Brothers, Big Sisters (BBBS) of Ponoka? Then hop on board me hearties and grab a bowling ball while yer at it, arrrr.

BBBS will host their 25th annual bowl-a-thon at Leisure Lanes Feb. 24. Raised funds go to support their mentor programs and last week program director Morgen Chernick was around town dressed as a pirate to ‘hook’ fundraisers. This year’s theme is: X Marks the Spot.

“Support from the community has been great, and Ponoka is very community-oriented,” said Chernick.

The goal this year is to raise $15,000 for BBBS, a conservative number compared to last year, which raised $18,000.

The bowl-a-thon is open to residents, clubs, and businesses. Teams consist of four to six people who will then pick up a pledge book from Chernick to collect money on behalf of BBBS. Prizes will be awarded to teams with the best costumes and also for the most money raised by a team and individual.

Chernick brought along Francine Lefebvre, also a Big Sister, who is doing her practicum in social work through Red Deer College. She wants to learn how community programs and fundraising happen.

“I had no idea how much work was involved,” she stated.

Planning for X Marks the Spot began in September and Chernick has met with individuals and businesses. Among them is Extra Foods in Ponoka. Store manager Audrey Cohoe, thinks they will have 14 people attend the bowl-a-thon.

“We like to do it because a lot of our kids are involved with Big Brother, Big Sisters,” she explained.

Chernick said BBBS might hit a milestone this month; they are in the final stages of having their 50th mentor, which is a first for the Ponoka program.

Watch for Chernick and her hook, and be prepared to knock down some pins and raise money at the same time.