Organizers behind the city’s premiere bowling for charity event have set the date for its fourth annual outing.
Strikes for Cancer 2012 will take place on May 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Founder Jaden Babiuk is eagerly looking forward to the fun. The exuberant nine-year-old hopes that the public continues to support the cause as much as the business community.
“They keep saying, ‘Good luck’,” he elaborated. “Right now I’m on the point for five lane sponsors.”
Jaden was only six in 2009 when he decided that cancer needed to be stopped. The young boy felt that the best way to do so was get as many people together as he could to raise money for research. Because of his love for the sport, he decided that bowling was a sure-fire draw to bring in the masses.
In the first three years of Strikes, it raised more than $35,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS). His irrepressible enthusiasm and cheery ability to bring in support has already garnered him a National Philanthropy Day Award. Later this month, the CCS will be giving him a Daffodil Award for his efforts.
Dad, and co-organizer Marvin Babiuk couldn’t be prouder while still aiming for greater results.
“Obviously we’re hoping for all of the lanes to be full,” he stated, optimistic that there will be 144 bowlers on the big day. “We’re confident that this year we can do it. Absolutely!”
Last week, father and son kicked off their campaign to bring in corporate support and started recruiting participants at the same time. Despite some public perception that Jaden makes his parents do all of the legwork, Marvin insists that Jaden personally visits businesses that he is requesting sponsorship and prize donations from.
Apart from the various games that will be set out for the participants, the Babiuks promise that it’s still pretty basic.
“Nothing much has changed,” Marvin said. “It’s a bowling event.”
“It’s a fun bowling event,” mom Lisa emphasized.
For more information or to register, email [email protected] or check out the event’s website at www.strikesforcancer.com. Individual registrants must raise a minimum of $50 in pledges.
