‘Hooray for Hollywood’ Bowl-A-Fun helps the homeless

Roll out the red carpet; it’s time to prepare for one of Oswego County Opportunities’ most popular community events, the annual Bowl-A-Fun!  This year’s bowling tournament and fundraiser will be held Saturday, April 14 at Lakeview Lanes in Fulton beginning at 11:30 AM.   The theme for the OCO Bowl of Fun is “Hooray for Hollywood! – Bowl A Strike Against Homelessness” and proceeds will support efforts to help the homeless.

With Oswego County being significantly higher than the state average for children and youth suffering abuse and maltreatment OCO’s youth shelter may be the only place to turn to for help.  Last year OCO’s Runaway and Homeless Youth program provided 147 unaccompanied youth with more than 3,000 meals as well as clothing, hygiene products, and shelter. OCO’s Youth Shelter has had a positive effect on the lives of those it serves. Last year approximately a third of those that visited OCO’s Youth Shelter reunited with their family. Fifteen entered PATH, OCO’s transitional living program for youth, while other unaccompanied youth found their own apartment or are now staying with friends.   

“Homelessness brings to mind a picture of people sleeping in boxes and living under bridges,” said OCO Executive Director Diane Cooper-Currier. “In Oswego County, we are more likely to have individuals and families who are constantly on the move, couch surfing in one friend’s home until they wear out their welcome and need to find another friend or family member to take them in.”

Homelessness makes meeting even the most basic needs of daily life extremely difficult, Cooper-Currier continued.  “Without an address, you can’t apply for a job, enroll in school, or receive your mail. You’re at the mercy of Oswego County’s often harsh weather, and your children don’t have a secure place to sleep.” Also, homeless youth face a greater risk of abuse, neglect, maltreatment, victimization, lack of services and homelessness as adults.

OCO’s “Hooray for Hollywood!” Bowl-A-Fun promises to be an afternoon of fun for all. There will be a variety of music, activities, entertainment, raffles, prize drawings and more.  There will be one flight of bowling; beginning at approximately 12:15 pm. Registration is $500 per team.

Space for teams is limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis.  Team registration is now open and those interested may do so online at www.oco.org.  Sponsorship and corporate team opportunities are also available.

Members of OCO’s Bowl-A-Fun planning committee pictured here getting Hollywood ready.

Pictured above seated from left are: Colette Nellis, Patty O’Connor, and Victoria Usherwood Gailinas. Standing from left are OCO Executive Director Diane Cooper-Currier, Candra McFarland Gawarecki, Christine Prevost, Toni Ross, and Betsy Copps. The “Hooray for Hollywood!” Bowl-A-Fun takes place Saturday, April 14, at Lakeview Lanes in Fulton. Space is limited, so visit www.oco.org to get team registration forms.