Bowling Creates Possibilities And Opportunities

‘This Is How We Roll’ was a huge success for both the Christian Opportunity Center and Imagine the Possibilities.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – Oskaloosa proves that it cares about everyone, and Friday night, everyone was out bowling.

‘This Is How We Roll’ is a fundraiser event that replaced the ‘Ten Pin Turkey Roll’, which was normally held in the fall for Imagine the Possibilities and the Christian Opportunity Center. The shift was to help make the event more of a springtime event.

Jeff Morris, Executive Director of Imagine the Possibilities, said that, “the event not only helps to raise money, but it helps to bring awareness to some of the things that we do in terms of service in the area. It’s a great opportunity to get the people of the community together with the folks that we serve, bowling together. We would love it if friendships develop, and a greater sense of what’s going on, with the folks that we serve amongst the community. That would be a great benefit.”

The night helps people that Imagine the Possibilities and the Christian Opportunity Center serve connect with the community. “We think that organizing an event like this can really help to do that,” said Morris.

During the night, clients for the COC and Imagine the Possibilities develop friendships with other community members as they bowl. “As people create friendships, and natural supports, they’ve got someone to turn to if they need something. Maybe they need a ride somewhere and they can’t find a ride. Maybe they need help moving something and they have a new friend they can ask… It just enriches their lives and improves the quality of life considerably,” said Morris.

Mahaska Bowl was filled with people, and all the lanes were packed with people of all ages having a good time. “Everyone seems to be having a tremendous time,” Morris said.

“One of the great parts of this event is the tangible way the community supports it,” Morris said. Lane sponsorships for the event is one of the primary ways that funds are raised. Even though Mahaska Bowl has 16 lanes, 43 businesses participated in lanes sponsorships. “People just kept on showing interest and wanting to sponsor and donate,” added Morris.

Bowlers took turns at the lanes and keeping an eye on their bids at the silent auction. Morris said that nearly 100 items were up for auction.

After the evening was concluded, the organization reported that this year “was the duo’s most successful bowling fundraiser!”