The Guidance Center’s Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl For Kids’ Sake 2017 event was a huge success.

The annual fundraiser, held March 11, saw 173 bowlers take part, raising a total of $17,821.

Domino’s of Bradford and Costa’s Supermarket of Smethportvdonated food for the event. Individual bowlers brought in $11,333 while business sponsors donated an additional $6,358. AmeriHealth and Kids for Cancer each sponsored a lane for families in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program to come out and enjoy the fun.

Each individual bowler was encouraged to raise a minimum of $50, organizers said. Staff and children involved with the McKean County Department of Human Services Independent Living program raised nearly $1,000 of the total amount raised by bowlers.

Individual bowlers who raised the most money were Terri Walker of the PSA Health Care team, first place; Amy Hartel, second; and Isabella and Nicolas Learn, third. Those bowlers raising the most money received prize packages containing Kwik Fill gas cards as well at Tops Market and Wal-Mart gift cards.

Every participant enjoyed two free bowling games, shoe rental, free food and refreshments and chances to win gift baskets.

There are 42 children on the waiting list for a Big, and more volunteers are needed, the organization said. Anyone or organization interested in learning how to volunteer with or donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters of McKean County, may call 887-5591. More information is available on the website atwww.bbbs-jem.org.

All of the funds raised at the bowling event support retention and recruitment of one-to-one matches between adult volunteers and youth in McKean County. The organization notes “long-term studies show that kids who have a Big are much less likely to get involved in problem behaviors, while also improving school attendance and academic performance  and supporting better relationships with family members and peers.”