Fun on the Lanes Creates Brighter Days for Arizona Veterans

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- League bowlers in Arizona played a critical role this year in the sport of bowling's own charity, the Bowlers to Veterans Link (BVL) (http://www.BowlforVeterans.org) raising more than $42,000.00 to support BVL's mission to provide recreational and therapeutic programs for hospitalized veterans and active duty troops.

The centerpiece of the Arizona campaign is an annual bowling tournament, set for Saturday, November 4.  (http://www.phxusbc.org/) Phoenix BVL Chair Dennis Brummitt explains, "This tournament kicks off our BVL effort and we build from there. Our bowlers understand the importance of the cause and they give generously." 

More than $27,000 was raised by members of the Metro Phoenix United States Bowling Congress (USBC), the largest single amount of any USBC chapter nationwide. Associations representing Yuma, Copper Counties, Tucson, Lake Havasu City, and Arizona State USBC were instrumental in insuring the success of the campaign.  Additionally, Mesa Metro USBC contributed $15,000.

"We can't thank our bowlers from Arizona enough; they have worked hard to ensure that veterans in Arizona and across the nation have brighter days," notes BVL Executive Director Mary Harrar.  "This will go a long way to meet our goal to provide veterans with sports and arts programs encouraging healthy and active lifestyles, boosting spirits, and reducing feelings of isolation and stress."

The majority of the Arizona funds raised are provided to the Phoenix VA, Northern Arizona VA (Prescott), Southern Arizona VA (Tucson) and Arizona State Veterans Home (Phoenix) for recreation therapy programs.

Arizona dollars also fund BVL National programs.  Adds Brummitt, "We make sure to support the myriad other BVL programs, including the performances of the travelling entertainment troupe 'Re-Creation' at VA facilities across the U.S.; aid for active duty troops in care at national facilities like Walter Reed; and sponsorship assistance for the VA's sports and arts competitions -- all important components of the BVL mission."

BVL has been honored by the Department of Veterans Affairs for its long-time commitment to veterans. VA Secretary David Shulkin notes, "I'm particularly grateful to Bowlers to Veterans Link for joining us in their own enduring commitment and noble work for Veterans. My deep thanks to BVL for steadfastly honoring Veterans' sacrifices."

Founded in 1942, BVL is a national 501 (c) (3) acknowledged for effective programming delivered with low overhead.  BVL is rated one of "America's Best Charities," and earned a "Top Rated" Nonprofit distinction.  

SOURCE Bowlers to Veterans Link