One pin at a time: 'Bowling for Haiti' event raises money, awareness

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Sarayuth Pinthong
  • 86th Airlift Wing public affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  In an effort to raise money for disaster relief operations in Haiti, Kaiserslautern Military Community members participated in a "Bowling for Haiti" fundraiser raising over twenty-five hundred dollars at Ramstein's bowling center, March 6.

Over 100 active duty members, along with friends and family, enjoyed an evening of fun, food and laughter, all for a good cause.

The last minute idea was introduced by Master Sgt. Hamp Lee III, Headquarters NATO Allied Air Component Command. Sergeant Lee was searching for a way to remind people that victims of the earthquake still need assistance despite the lack of publicity of the media.

"Once I saw the disaster, I was wondering what I can do as a military member," said Sergeant Lee. "I just wanted to do my part and contribute to the relief efforts."

Even though a few months have passed, he felt that the events in Haiti should not be forgotten.

"This is another opportunity to give and be aware at the same time," he said.

Take something that's lots of fun like bowling and add in a good cause behind it and it makes it fun for everyone. Volunteers filled the bowling center despite snowy weather. Groups of participants even waited for available lanes in order to show their support.

Even little kids with their families had the opportunity to make a difference in some way. Children that were just old enough to understand the events also had the chance to plant a seed on why volunteering is so important in the world. The event also enabled parents an opportunity to raise awareness of values towards a worldwide event.

"Everyone had that cooperative spirit of donating," added Sergeant Lee. "Having too many people is a good thing. It's been absolutely outstanding to see so many people come out to support Haiti and wanting to be a part of it."

The fundraiser consisted of donating ten cents a pin or one dollar a strike for the better players. Some players were sponsored by organizations that could not make the event. Others that wanted to show their support just made donations directly to the cause itself.

"We just want to raise hope," said Master Sgt. Dawn Kolczynski, Headquarters NATO, CC-Air, Top Three vice president. "Raise-hope-raise-money is our motto. People in Haiti are still suffering and we just want to remind people that they still need our support."

Members participating in the fundraiser gave just a little more hope to the people of Haiti as the day progressed. The event somehow reminded everyone that the people of Haiti are not forgotten and every little bit counts. Friends and family within the KMC dedicated four hours of their day to prove that - one pin at a time.

All proceeds will be given to The American Red Cross Haiti Relief and Development Fund.