Big Brothers group strikes it big with annual fund-raiser

Six-year-old Kevin tries to perfect his bowling technique at the "Bowl for Kids' Sake" -- a fund-raiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters -- at the Utah Fun Dome on Saturday. The event concluded Sunday. Hundreds of volunteers raised at least $100 each in pledges to participate. Volunteers were divided into teams of five -- which included "big" and "little" siblings as well as friends, family and co-workers. Money raised at the event will help the nonprofit organization match at-risk children with volunteers who serve as positive role models in their lives. The organization's goal for this year was to raise $70,000 so it can increase the number of "little brothers and sisters" from 380 to 430 by the end of 1999. Right now, 75 children are on the waiting list for a mentor. Last year's top fund-raiser, Big Brother Mark Murray, brought in more than $3,000. The event has raised more than $1 million since its inception in 1985.