Pictou County Fundraiser Raises $65K for Youth Mentoring

For 45 years, people in Pictou County have shown up to bowl for a cause bigger than strikes and spares.

On May 2, hundreds of volunteers, families, and local businesses filled the Heather Bowling Lanes in New Glasgow for Bowl for Kids Sake. The annual event raised $65,347 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pictou County, with more donations still coming in throughout May.

The money stays local, funding mentorship programs that connect caring adults with young people who need support. Executive Director Margie Grant Walsh says kids today face complex challenges that require consistent guidance and encouragement.

"This year was another incredible success," Walsh shared. "Behind that success are countless hours of planning, dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and a community that continues to believe in the power of mentoring."

Big Brothers Big Sisters relies on fundraising for about 85 percent of its budget. Every dollar raised goes directly to programs serving children and youth across Pictou and Antigonish Counties.

The bowling event kicks off a longer fundraising campaign that runs through early June. Seven local schools are participating in the Champion for Kids School Challenge, helping students access essential resources for education and life success.

The Ripple Effect

Walsh says volunteers consistently tell her they wish they'd gotten involved sooner. The experience of mentoring creates positive change that extends far beyond one-on-one relationships.

"Kids today face a lot of adversity," Walsh explains. "I hope that moving forward, events like this that represent such significant community engagement and charitable impact will continue to be recognized and celebrated."

Community members who want to volunteer can start with community-based programs that match them with young people nearby. The organization makes getting involved straightforward, with support available at every step.

A community that bowls together for 45 years straight knows something powerful about showing up for its kids.