March 11, 2004

Bowl-A-Thon to support Junior Achievement set for this weekend

By Miranda Schultz
Sports Editor

Century 21 Realtor Dave Roche is lacing up his bowling shoes in anticipation for the Bowl-A-Thon he's putting on this weekend in support of Junior Achievement. The event gets rolling at 1 p.m. on March 13 at the Moonlight Bowl in Santa Clara.

“I met with the president and vice president of the Bay Area Junior Achievement to discuss what I could do. They have such a great organization and it's something that benefits our children. I remember it from when I was a kid, and I thought it would be a good cause to support,” says Roche.

Pledges to sponsor Roche's team of bowlers have poured in from friends and family. In support of the team, one can either pledge an amount per pin, or just give a donation.

Junior Achievement is a national organization that uses hands-on experiences to help young people understand the economics of life. In partnership with business and educators, the organization brings the real world to students in an effort to open their minds and potential.

Junior Achievement volunteers, educators, parents and contributors reach out to 4 million students each year, in grades K-12. With elementary, middle and high school programs, Junior Achievement aims to improve critical thinking skills, encourage students to become entrepreneurs and help them understand the importance of staying in school.

The Bowl-A-Thon team will be comprised of Roche, Doug Keller of Y2 Marketing, David Silveira of Washington Mutual Bank and Bob Swan of Mortgage Magic. Each member hopes to raise more than $100 for Junior Achievement.

To sponsor the team in their efforts, call Roche at (408) 250-0304 and let him know.

“If they want to sponsor anyone, it should be me,” says Roche. “Because I'll be, by far, the worst bowler on the team.”