Buckets of Hope brings help to those in hardship
Sue Mara was the inspiration for the Buckets of Hope crew. (Submitted photo)
By Steve Van Kooten
On Oct. 14 Buckets of Hope, Inc will hold a fundraiser at the Leisure Time Sports Bar & Bowl in Prairie du Chien from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s the first time the organization has held an event at the bowling alley, but marks 11 years of events to benefit those in need.
The event was organized by Mandy Pettit, President of Buckets of Hope; Rachael George, Vice President; Catie Dean, Treasurer; and Joanne Prew, Rose Eglseder, and Sheila Harvey, board members.
Buckets of Hope, a non-profit, has roots in the Prairie du Chien area: the organization previously was known as “Sue’s Fun Run” and hosted an annual 5K run. Before that, they were a group of friends and colleagues trying to make a difference for individuals and families that experienced life-altering events, such as medical problems, the loss of a spouse or a house fire, just to name a few. Proceeds from the event will be distributed to those experiencing loss or crisis for “whatever they might need” along with a card.
“It’s all about bringing a little hope,” Pettit said. Each of the board members had experience working in the medical field. “We know how impactful that can be.”
The event is in memory of Sue Mara, Eastman, who passed away in 2013. Pettit said, “She was the one to make things happen.” Pettit stated that the group has ran events since then, and became Buckets of Hope 3-4 years ago to increase the help they could provide.
Bowling registration will start at 11 a.m. with prizes going to the first, second and third place teams. Prizes will also be awarded in other categories, such as Best Dressed.
At 12 p.m. an all-you-can-eat chicken dinner will be served until 4 p.m. The dinner will be dine-in or carry out for $15.
Additional events include a 50/50 raffle, silent auction and meat raffle. The meat raffle will be in the form of gift cards/certificates from United Steaks and Spirits and Mississippi Meats. Baskets donated to the event will also be selected by drawing.
