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POLK COUNTY—Bowling For Kids’ Sake 2024 was held at Tar Heel Lanes in Hendersonville on March 2, marking the largest annual fundraiser for BBBS. The organization serves more than 350 underserved children and young adults across 18 counties in Western North Carolina. 

Six teams from Polk County, representing local churches, businesses, and private donors, participated in the event. Participants were encouraged to wear their favorite sports-related accessories. The mascots from Henderson and Lake Lure Classical, along with the cheerleaders from Polk County High, added to the energy and excitement of the event. 

Several Little bowlers also took part in the event, with some bowling for the first time ever. The entire 18 counties in BBBS raised approximately $140,000 to help fund their tight budget. Special events and grants fund 85% of their budget, which puts them in a narrow budget window every year. 

“We need individuals and companies to invest in these 356 highly deserving and underserved children,” said BBBS of Polk County board member Bill Smith. “They are among the neediest in these 18 western North Carolina counties. We ask for your help as we strive to improve their well-being and welfare before it’s too late.” 

Wolverine Pizza, The Brick Pizzaria, and Side Street Pizza donated pizza. The event was sponsored by various organizations, including Ashworth Financial, UCC of Tryon, Tryon Bottle, The Gorge/Green River Adventures, Polk County Community Foundation, Stott’s Ford, Steeplechase, Kiwanis, American Legion, Green Life, Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the LLCA Raptors.

Isabell Builders sponsored the Polk Players team, Little Minnows (out of Florida) and Linda Aley sponsored the Polk Bigs/Littles team, and Nancy Mahler, Bill Smith, Dan Dworkin, Steven King, Robert Tobey, Pacolet Baptist Church, and Beth Kinstler sponsored the Rutherford Rollers team. 

BBBS of Polk County has been serving the community for 24 years, thanks to the support of many individuals and organizations, including the Polk County Community Foundation, Karen Dacey and Rob Fuller. For more information, interested parties can contact program coordinator Jessica Toney at 828-429-7626 or jessicat@bbbswnc.org, or Council Chairman Bill Smith at 864-608-9807 or wdsclemson68@gmail.com.