CAMDEN— Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine invites local businesses, organizations and individuals to sign up to Bowl For Kids' Sake 2018, presented by Hannaford Supermarkets, Camden National Bank and United Insurance. Local bowling events will be held April 5 through April 10 in Northport and Belfast and April 25 through April 28 in Waldoboro and Rockport. Teams raise funds for mentoring programs in Knox, Lincoln and Waldo counties and then come out to celebrate their success at the state's largest bowling party – Bowl for Kids' Sake.

Special Events Manager Shawn Doll said Bowl for Kids' Sake is Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine's largest fundraising event, funding more than half of the agency's operating budget that serves seven counties throughout mid- coast, eastern and central Maine. Last year's Midcoast bowling event raised over $82,000 for local community-based and school-based programs in Knox, Lincoln and Waldo counties.

According to Doll, every Big and Little match the agency creates and professionally supports costs about $1,000 annually. "Funds raised at Bowl for Kids' Sake play a significant role in supporting matches between high school students and their Littles in our school-based programs, and supports strong and enduring relationships between community Bigs and their Littles." Last year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine served 739 youth. Doll said their goal is to raise $92,500 to help change the lives of over 250 local Midcoast kids through successful 1-to-1 mentoring programs.

Businesses and individuals can register a team online at bbbsmidmaine.org, select a desired bowling date and time and create team and personal fundraising pages where supporters can make safe, electronic donations. Bowlers can also download pledge forms to collect donations to bring to the event. Teams that raise $500 or more will receive 2018 Bowl for Kids' Sake t-shirts at the event. Individuals who raise $100 or more are entered into a grand prize drawing. This year's theme is Mix To Match: Come unperfectly dressed in mixed-up attire! Polka dots with stripes, suit coat and tie with rainbow leggings, it all works at our BFKS event! Earn a prize for the zaniest combinations of clothing to help support a match between a Big and a Little. Prizes awarded for most creative mix-matching. There will be hourly bowling prizes awarded and a special recognition event for high fundraisers.

Local businesses can support Bowl for Kids' Sake by becoming sponsors, donating prizes and registering teams to participate. Event volunteers are also welcome. Lane times are filling up fast, so register soon. FMI or for help registering your team, call Shawn Doll at 207-236-2227 x102 or email shawn@bbbsmidmaine.org.