32 teams from J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) participated in this year’s Bowl for Kids event for Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). Bowl for Kids is an annual event that raises much-needed funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters, hosted annually at Fairview Bowling Lanes in Saint John.

“JDI’s involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters is absolutely amazing. We couldn’t offer the programs and services to the children in the community without their generous donations. They’re highly involved all year round,” said Nikki Comeau, Big Brothers Big Sisters. “The amount of teams they get together, and the spirit that they bring - it is life-changing to so many children and youth in our community.”

JDI has a volunteer commitment with the PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) program, but additionally continues to beat the company’s personal fundraising record for Big Brothers Big Sisters year after year. This year, a remarkable $106,385.20 was donated to the extraordinary work of Big Brothers Big Sisters Saint John. At the event, Mr. Irving presented BBBS Executive Director Laurie Collins, and upcoming President Nikki Comeau with a cheque for $106,385. During the time that the cheque was presented at the bowling alley, there were additional donations made, explaining the difference in amounts. 

Over the past eight years, JDI teams have raised over $671,000 while bowling for kids.

Laurie Collins, BBBS Executive Director, Saint John and Nikki Comeau, BBBS Incoming President, Saint John accept JDI’s donation from Mr. J.K. Irving at Bowl For Kids’ Sake.

“Mr. J. K. Irving continues to be a wonderful champion for the young people in our area. Because of his vision - the programs and the PALS movement he initiated, the efforts to support BBBS and other children’s causes - he has given each of us the opportunity to support our community in so many ways. The impact is being felt in all neighbourhoods and we are seeing great changes!" said Deborah Fisher, PALS Coordinator. 

The annual event attracts many teams across JDI operations. This year’s 32 teams hosted multiple fundraisers including jewelry & scarves sale, raffle draws, chili lunches, breakfast sales, bake sales, and 50/50 draws.

106,385 huge thank yous go out to everyone who donated, participated, and helped to organize this event. We are proud to say Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake 2016 was a huge success!