Two local youth services organizations will benefit from an event where community members can exchange donations for lunch.
All proceeds from lunch tickets purchased for Raft to Rafters Pool and Spa’s fifth annual Open House will be given to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bartholomew County and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Brown County.
This organization was selected for its local impact on children, said Lisa Miller, head of philanthropic outreach at Raft to Rafters Pool and Spa, who was a Big Sister herself in high school and still remembers how much it impacted her, as well as the person she mentored.
“We are thrilled to be able to provide lunch and to donate 100 percent of ticket sales to benefit the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters in our local community,” Raft to Rafters owner Matthew Miller said. “Children who have mentors are more confident in their abilities, do better in school and are less vulnerable to peer pressure and bullying.”
The open house will run until 3 p.m. Saturday with a picnic-style lunch between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. A minimum donation of $3 includes grilled meat, two side dishes, a beverage and dessert.
The event will also include door prizes and store discounts.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is a non-profit organization that seeks to help children reach their full potential through professionally supported, one-on-one relationships with volunteer mentors. The program is provided at no cost to participants, said Karina Willats, resource development director at Foundation For Youth.
In previous years, the fundraiser has helped give back to St. Baldrick’s Foundation, Advocates for Children and the Bartholomew County Humane Society, Lisa Miller said. With the help of the community, more than $3,000 has been given to these organizations, she said.
“When we come together and give back, the results are tremendous,” she said.
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When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, with lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Raft to Rafters Pool and Spa, 5780 E. 25th St., Columbus
Tickets: $3, plus $1.16 fee online at rafttorafters.com/5th-annual-open-house/.
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