BRATTLEBORO — The For Kids' Sake Fun Run is a peer-to-peer fundraiser to support Big Brothers Big Sisters Vermont's (BBBSVT) effort to provide mentors for the more than 100 youth on their waiting list.
BBBS mentoring is an evidence-based prevention practice that helps to improve resilience in children and youth by pairing them with a reliable volunteer “Big” who shows up on a regular basis to ensure they feel valued and supported, and provides a safe space for youth to express themselves, discover new opportunities, and build the skills needed to reach their goals.
There are three ways to participate in the Fun Run, which replaces their former longstanding Bowl for Kids' Sake event: in person, virtually, or “opt out.”
In-person participants register and collect pledges, then head to Brattleboro to attend the live event at the Brattleboro Union High School track and field between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 15, to enjoy music by Matthew John Entertainment, themed track races (or walk/run at your own pace), field games for all ages, snacks and refreshments, and a chance to win raffles and prizes.
Virtual participants register and collect pledges, then choose their own adventure and participate from anywhere. Set a time between now and Sunday, May 15, to enjoy your favorite outdoor activity and share a pic or video of your accomplishments with BBBSVT on Facebook, Instagram, or via email. You can also choose to “opt out” by making a donation with no need to participate.
“If you're already out there walking, running, biking or hiking, why not ask a friend to sponsor your time and make a difference in your community For Kids' Sake?” said Kimberley Diemond, executive director of BBBSVT, in a news release. “And if you're able to join us at the live event in Brattleboro, it's a great opportunity to participate in a healthy activity with family and friends while supporting kids through mentoring. Last year, the virtual event raised about $15,000 and we're hoping to raise at least that amount in 2022.”
All participants who raise $100 or more will be entered into multiple drawings to receive Amazon gift certificates. Prizes will be announced at the live event on May 15 and shared through social media. Winners who are not at the live event will be contacted individually.
BBBSVT says that For Kids' Sake events are an important part of how funds are raised to provide mentors for kids throughout Vermont. Participants can either make their donations to the statewide effort to serve kids in all 14 Vermont counties or designate donations to their local community.
To register yourself or a team, or for more information, visit bbbsvt.org or contact Diemond at 802-689-0092 ext. 1, or info@bbbsvt.org. Registration for all current Bigs, Littles, and children ages 17 and under is free. Participants that raise a minimum of $25 receive a t-shirt. Registration for ages 18+ is $40 now through May 1, and $50 after May 1st. Paid registrations Include entry to the virtual and/or in person event, a running bib, and a T-shirt.