The annual League the Way bowling fundraiser for Youth Services of Creek County had its best year yet, according to Director Erin Brook. Approximately $27,500 was raised for the shelter, “more money than previous years, and thus far the highest amount raised,” Brook said.
The event, which has been held each year since 1999, provides vital funding for YSCC, which uses it to serve children and families in Creek County, whether it be parenting classes, counseling services, or its chief objective: sheltering misplaced youth.
This year insurance company Modern Woodsmen donated $5000 as a match to the first $5000 that was raised for the event.
Every year, local businesses create teams or chip in with their donations to help support the organization. Each year has a theme, and this year was set in the 1980s, and boy did the crowd participate. “From hair bands, to punk rockers, to icons of the 80s,” said Brook. “These teams brought in props and really got into the spirit!” She said the idea to go with the 1980s theme was from YSCC therapist Deborah Funk. “She chairs the fundraising event from the theme to the trophies, to all the minor details each year,” Brook said.
As in past years, awards were handed out for several categories, including “highest score,” “lowest score,” “most money raised,” and “best dressed.” Global container company Ardagh won the highest score trophy, while American Heritage Bank won the award for the lowest score. Carletti Dentistry got the award for raising the most money, and a ragtag group called 83 United won the “best dressed” category.
A special award goes each year to a community member that donates time and effort to Youth Services in whatever way they can make the biggest impact. The award is called the Sara Lund Community Service Award and is named after a volunteer who began at age 8 by pulling weeds in YSCC flower beds. Since 2012, the Sara Lund Community Service Award has been given to various individuals and organizations that show exemplary service and volunteering for Youth Services of Creek County. This year’s winner was Camille Teale, who Brook praised for her community involvement as the Director of Caring Community Friends, an organization that serves the community through its food pantry, community garden, and the Book and Snack Mobile, which provides a way to bring food and books to students over the summer.
Brook says the event is probably the highlight of the year for the shelter, funding-wise. “Our YSCC team looks forward to this event every year,” she said. “Not only do the funds go to a great cause, the event promotes companies to get out, have fun, and enjoy what Sapulpa has to offer at our local Sahoma Lanes Bowling Center. We are so thankful to Sahoma Lanes for hosting us each year, the community for supporting us so generously, and I am personally thankful for my YSCC Team who make this event possible!”
