LEWISTON — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine is calling businesses, organizations and individuals to participate in the Androscoggin Bowl for Kids’ Sake, from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, May 11 and 12, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 13, at Sparetime Recreation.

The event involves individuals and teams of people raising pledges to support BBBS’s one-to-one mentoring programs in local schools, involving children (“Littles”) ages 5 to 14.

Jennifer Cartmell, Androscoggin manager, said Bowl for Kids’ Sake is Big Brothers Big Sisters largest fundraiser, funding more than half the agency’s operating budget that serves seven counties throughout mid-coast, eastern and central Maine. Funds raised through Bowl for Kids’ Sake play a critical role in creating and supporting the matches between high school and college students and their Littles in school-based programs in Androscoggin County.

Bigs are already giving back to their community through their mentoring, but many will also be on the lanes to be part of the event, which is  for everyone. Big Brothers Big Sisters encourages community members to bring their families.

Teams that raise $500 or more will receive this year’s “Go Big or Go Home” T-shirts. Individuals who raise $100 or more are entered into a grand prize drawing. There will be hourly bowling prizes awarded and a special recognition event for high fundraisers.

Cartmell noted that those who cannot make the bowling event can take part in the Androscoggin BBBS Golf Tournament fundraiser on Monday, Sept. 25, at Martindale.

FMI, register: bbbsmidmaine.org, 207-653-3857, jennifer@bbbsmidmaine.org.

Leah, a Washburn Big with her little, Adriana.

Bates big Lucy with her little, Hazey, at Longley.

Lucy with her little, Hazey, having creative fun on the playground.