PHOTOS: Forsyth Has Successful "Bowl for Kids" Event

The "Bowl for Kids" event proved to be a huge success with a record 120 bowlers showing up at a local bowling alley over the weekend, according to a press release.

This year's event raised more than $8,000 for Mentor Me North Georgia, a local non-profit organization that provides one-on-one mentoring relationships between volunteer adults and children. The money will be used to match mentors with children. 

“It’s always great to see the community coming together to support our children and youth," said Sylvia Cardona, executive director of the non-profit. "Everyone had a great time and now we’ll be able to match more children with caring mentors."

Virgilio Perez-Pascoe, the current Mentor Me Board Chair, said the organization does excellent work. 

"Mentoring is based on a very simple idea - someone who wants to improve the life of a child becomes matched with a child who wants and needs the friendship and positive influence of an adult mentor," he said. "The impact is profound and lasting - the lives of both are changed forever."

Mentor Me matches volunteers with children ages 6 - 17, who need and want mentors. Men are matched with boys, and women are matched with girls. They share everyday activities such as sports, movies, or going to the zoo, museum, and music events. Children involved in the Forsyth County program have demonstrated increased self-confidence and self-esteem. Also, they show measured improvement in academic performance and behavior.

"Our goal is to provide mentors to all the children in Forsyth County who need and want them," said Perez-Pascoe. "It contributes to brighter futures for children, better schools, and a stronger community."

Visit the Mentor Me North Georgia website for more information about volunteer opportunities.

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