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- BFKS | Foundation For Youth
Bowl For Kids' Sake is our signature event to raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bartholomew County. With a goal to raise over $100,000, this peer-to-peer event culminates in a day of fun and bowling, reaching our whole community and beyond. Bowl For Kids' Sake is the fundraising event. 100% of the proceeds goes to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bartholomew County (BBBS). They help children realize their potential and build their futures by matching them with mentors in our community. BOWL FOR KIDS' SAKE Bowl For Kids' Sake is our signature event to raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bartholomew County. With a goal to raise over $100,000, this peer-to-peer event culminates in a day of fun and bowling, reaching our whole community and beyond. Bowl For Kids' Sake is the fundraising event. 100% of the proceeds goes to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bartholomew County (BBBS). They help children realize their potential and build their futures by matching them with mentors in our community. SPONSOR PACKET FUNDRAISING GUIDE FAQS FUNDRAISING TIPS DONATE SPONSOR REGISTER 2026 PHOTOS *Please Note: You must be registered by February 15th to be guarenteed a shirt. A DAY OF BOWLING = A LIFETIME OF IMPACT BFKS 2026 March 6 - 7, 2026 | 9:00am - 4:30pm SAVE THE DATE! DOWNLOAD FLYER BFKS FAQS I’d love to Bowl For Kids’ Sake! What’s next? First off — YAY! We’re so excited you’re joining in. You’re going to make an awesome Team Captain! Your next step is to recruit your teammates. Each team can have up to five bowlers. If you’ve got more than five, no problem — just split into two teams! We’ll make sure your lanes are side-by-side so you can still enjoy bowling together. Wait… what does a Team Captain do? Team Captains are the go-to person for each team and the first to register. When registering, you’ll create your team name — then share it with your teammates. Each teammate will register individually, select “Join a Team,” and pick your team name from the dropdown menu. We’re all registered! Do we just show up and bowl? Almost! Because Bowl For Kids’ Sake is the only fundraiser where 100% of proceeds support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bartholomew County, we ask each team to set a fundraising goal of $500. It’s a fun, achievable goal — and every dollar makes a big difference. Don’t worry if you raise more (or a little less); it’s all for a great cause! But I’ve never raised money before! No problem! We’ve got you covered — scroll down for some simple fundraising tips and ideas to get started. Anything else I should know? The week before the event, all Team Captains will get an email with your team’s details, including bowling time and packet pickup info. Need to change your bowling time? No worries — just email Karina at karina@foundationforyouth.com Still have questions? Reach out to Karina anytime — by email or by phone at 812-348-4558 x208. She’s happy to help! 10 TIPS FOR FUNDRAISING SUCCESS Tip #1: Know your “why.” Fundraising is easy when you believe in the cause! Big Brothers Big Sisters changes lives and helps kids reach their full potential — people want to be part of that impact. Tip #2: Lead by example. Start by making your own donation. It shows your friends and family that you’re not only giving your time, but also personally investing in the mission. Tip #3: Aim high! Don’t be afraid to ask for a big gift — if you ask for $100 and receive $50, that’s still a win! Be sincere and focus on what matters: helping children in our community. Whether it’s $5, $25, or $100, every dollar helps kids succeed. Tip #4: Ask your way. Choose whatever feels natural — in person, over the phone, by email, or through social media. A genuine ask always goes a long way. Tip #5: Tap into your network. Spread the word in your community! Ask at club meetings, church groups, or social gatherings. People you already connect with are often eager to help. Tip #6: Get your family involved. Share your excitement (and these tips!) with family and friends. They can help spread the word and reach new supporters on your behalf. Tip #7: Host a mini fundraiser. Get creative! Sell snacks at work, organize a casual Friday, or come up with your own fun way to raise funds together. Tip #8: Celebrate and share your progress. Use social media to thank your supporters and highlight your success — your gratitude can inspire others to give too! Tip #9: Don’t worry about the “no’s.” If someone can’t give right now, thank them sincerely for their time. A “no” today might turn into a “yes” later! Tip #10: Remind donors — it’s tax deductible! Every donor receives an official receipt confirming their gift for tax purposes. It’s a win-win: they help local kids and receive a deduction.
- SAFE PLACE | Foundation For Youth
The National Safe Place in Bartholomew County offers a safe, confidential place for youth in crisis. With local Safe Place sites available, young people can access immediate support, resources, and shelter to ensure their safety and well-being. The program provides a critical lifeline for at-risk youth, offering a safe environment during times of need. Learn more about the National Safe Place Network in Bartholomew County and how we are helping protect and empower youth in our community. SAFE PLACE The Foundation For Youth is the Licensed Safe Place agency for Bartholomew County. As the local youth service provider, FFY serves as the doorway to safety for young people in our community. As a Licensed Safe Place agency, FFY is responsible for operating the Safe Place program locally—this includes securing official licensure, providing specialized training, and forming essential partnerships to keep the program strong and effective. FFY also manages and grows the program to ensure that any youth in crisis always has a safe, trusted place to turn. Safe Place is a national outreach and prevention program for youth in crisis. It provides access to immediate help and supportive resources for youth in need. As a community initiative, the program designates schools, fire stations, libraries, and other youth-friendly organizations as Safe Place locations, which display the yellow and black sign. Foundation For Youth is the Safe Place Coordinator for Bartholomew County and has partnered with local business and organizations to provide youth immediate safety and access to supportive resources. For immediate assistance call 812-344-6230 . This hotline is for youth, ages 10-17, who are at risk of abuse, neglect or serious family problems. If you are an adult in need of help, call Crisis Support at 877-882-5122. HOW IT WORKS A young person (age 10-17) enters a Safe Place site and asks for a Safe Place representative. Example, “I need help from Safe Place.” The site employee finds a comfortable place for the Safe Place visitor to wait while they call Foundation For Youth, the licensed agency for Bartholomew County. Within 1 hour, a qualified Safe Place volunteer or Foundation For Youth staff member will arrive and show ID, then to talk to the youth. Upon initial assessment, the Safe Place visitor will be connected to a licensed Safe Place shelter or any other necessary resources. Foundation For Youth partners with the following shelters: Once at the shelter, staff will meet with the youth and provide support , ensuring the youth and their families receive the help, resources and professional services they need. LOCAL SAFE PLACE LOCATIONS THE COMMUNITY IMPACT Community Benefits of Safe Place Youth can access help before their situation becomes a crisis. Safe Place provides opportunities for unique partnerships and collaborations between businesses and social service entities. The program is part of a national effort, providing a broad safety net for youth. Children and teens have easy access to help when and where they need it. Having a Safe Place program in place sends a powerful message that young people are valued. Become a Safe Place Site Safe Place sites are businesses and other public locations designated by a licensed Safe Place agency as “safe places” for youth to go when in crisis situations. The licensed agency for Bartholomew County is Foundation For Youth. Click here to find a list of Safe Place site requirements set by the National Safe Place Network (NSPN). Organizations in Bartholomew County that are interested in becoming a Safe Place can reach out to Nathan Larrison at nathan@foundationforyouth.com
- YOUTH AMBASSADORS | Foundation For Youth
The Youth Ambassador Program empowers Bartholomew County high school students in grades 10–12 through leadership development, civic engagement, community projects, and opportunities for personal growth. YOUTH AMBASSADORS The Youth Ambassador Program aims to empower youth to thrive in adulthood by developing their unique talents, cultivating healthy behaviors and relationships, and participating in community projects that make a difference. Youth Ambassadors (YA) are Bartholomew County high school students in grades 10-12 committed to meaningful civic engagement and personal growth. YAs serve through youth-driven outreach initiatives while strengthening their leadership skills and focusing on equity in their communities. BECOME A YOUTH AMBASSADOR! The Youth Ambassador Program aims to empower youth to thrive in adulthood by developing their unique talents, cultivating healthy behaviors and relationships, and participating in community projects that make a difference. Youth Ambassadors (YA) are Bartholomew County high school students in grades 10-12 committed to meaningful civic engagement and personal growth. YAs serve through youth-driven outreach initiatives while strengthening their leadership skills and focusing on equity in their communities. APPLY NOW! STAY IN THE KNOW! Join the FFY Newsletter to get the latest updates on our programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and more!
- FFY RENTALS | Foundation For Youth
Looking for a unique event space in Columbus, Indiana? The Foundation for Youth offers versatile rental spaces, including a spacious gymnasium, refreshing pool, kitchen, and a multi-purpose room perfect for parties and special events. Whether you're planning a birthday party or community gathering, our venue provides the ideal setting. Book your event today! RENTALS AT FOUNDATION FOR YOUTH Looking for a unique event space in Columbus, Indiana? Check out our rental offerings at our 405 Hope Avenue location! Foundation For Youth offers versatile rental spaces, including a spacious gymnasium, refreshing pool, kitchen, and a multi-purpose room perfect for parties and special events. Whether you're planning a birthday party or community gathering, our space provides the ideal setting for a memorable time. Book your event today! RENTAL PROCESS RENTAL RATES & PACKAGES FACILITY RENTAL FAQS We’re so glad you’re interested in renting space at Foundation For Youth! Below are answers to some of our most common questions to help make your event run smoothly. POOL RENTALS Can we bring food or drinks to the pool deck? Only water is allowed on the pool deck. No other food or drinks are permitted for safety and cleanliness reasons. Can we rent a room along with the pool? Yes! Many pool renters also add the Multipurpose Room (MPR) to their rental. The MPR is a great space for food, cake, and gifts after swim time. GYM RENTAL Can we bring food or drinks into the gym? No food is allowed in the gym. Water bottles are okay, but please help us keep the gym floor clean and safe for play. Can we decorate for our event? Yes, simple decorations are fine, but please use painter’s tape only and avoid anything that could damage walls or floors. MULTIPURPOSE ROOM (MPR) & KITCHEN ACCESS What does “limited kitchen use” mean? The kitchen is intended for food prep and warming, not full cooking. Examples of acceptable use: Warming pre-cooked food in the oven or microwave Using small appliances for warming food Setting up food or drinks for your event Can we use the oven or microwave? Yes — as long as you clean up afterward. Please let us know in advance if you plan to use these appliances so our Rental Supervisor can assist if needed and ensure safety. Can we use small appliances like crockpots or coffee makers? Yes, that’s fine — just let us know ahead of time and please clean up after use. Can we use the fridge or freezer? No. The Club uses these spaces regularly, and they are not available for renter use. Please plan to bring your own cooler with ice if you need to keep food or drinks cold. What’s included when we add the MPR to our rental? The MPR includes: Tables and chairs for up to 72 people Access to the kitchen (limited use as outlined above) 15 minutes before and after your scheduled time for decorating and clean-up Are extra tables or chairs available? Yes! Each rental includes tables and chairs for standard capacity. If you need additional tables or chairs, they are available for a small surcharge. Please communicate your request at the time of booking so we can ensure they are reserved and ready for your event. CLEANUP EXPECTATIONS What are renters responsible for after their event? Please make sure: All food and trash are removed Tables, counters, and appliances are wiped down Floors are swept if needed Decorations are removed Everything is completed within your rental time, including the 15-minute window before and after Spaces are left the same way they were found This helps keep our facility clean and ready for the next group! Need help during your rental? If you need anything during your rental time, please ask the Rental Supervisor on duty. They will be set up at a disclosed location during your rental and can help with questions, supplies, or any issues that come up. HELPFUL REMINDERS Only water is allowed on the pool deck. No food in the gym. Bring a cooler with ice for cold items. The kitchen is for warming and prepping, not full cooking. You have 15 minutes before and after your rental for setup and cleanup. Please notify us if you’ll be using kitchen appliances. STAY IN THE KNOW! Join the FFY Newsletter to get the latest updates on our programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and more!
- BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS | Foundation For Youth
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bartholomew County, a program of Foundation For Youth, pairs youth with caring adult mentors to foster positive relationships and personal growth. By providing guidance and support, we help youth, build confidence, improve academic performance, and reduce the risk of involvement in negative behaviors. Our mentorship program empowers kids to reach their full potential and create brighter futures, positively impacting both the youth and their community. BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS Big Brothers Big Sisters operates under the belief that inherent in every child is incredible potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs ”) and children (“Littles ”) in communities across the country as the nation’s largest donor- and volunteer-supported mentoring network. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. We partner with parents/guardians, volunteers, schools, and the donors in our area to defend, ignite, and empower the potential of every kid we serve. The Big Brothers Big Sisters mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. The Big Brothers Big Sisters vision is that all youth achieve their full potential. ONE-TO-ONE MENTORING PROGRAMS COMMUNITY-BASED Approved community-based Bigs may go to the Little's home to provide transportation for the Littles for BBBS match outings. Matches typically get together two times a month for 2 - 4 hours to engage in activities they enjoy. Community-based matches involve 1-on-1 outings and activities: Hiking Going to museums Going to an event hosted by FFY or BBBS Hanging out and talking Exploring Columbus and the surrounding area Some Bigs meet their Littles on weekday evenings. Others get together with their Littles on the weekends. Each match is unique and creates a schedule that works for them. SITE-BASED (SCHOOL) Parents and youth enrolled in this program can choose an adult mentor or high school mentor. Bigs and Littles meet consistently during the school year, once per week for 30 minutes to an hour. Matches typically meet during the Little's lunch and recess time. Each match has a variety of activities they can do together: Play Board Games Create Crafts Together Shoot hoops in the gym (with school approval) Read books together All school-based matches meet during school hours and follow the school calendar. SMALL GROUP MENTORING PROGRAM HIGH SCHOOL SITE-BASED CHARGED stands for Creating Holistic Achievement through Role Models, Guidance, and Empowerment for the Development of Teens. This program serves teens ages 14–18, pairing small groups of 2 to 5 youth with a dedicated adult mentor, known as a Coach . These groups meet once a week for 30 minutes during the school year, typically during their high school’s advisory period. CHARGED is designed to help teens build essential life skills, boost confidence, and form positive, supportive relationships — all with the goal of preparing them for a successful and fulfilling future. IT TAKES LITTLE TO BE A BIG BE A BIG! We do not need to create potential, we just need to defend it. The kids in our community are waiting for mentors who will stand with them to defend, ignite, and empower their potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters exists to create positive change in our community by matching youth with Bigs to build powerful friendships. ADULT BIG INQUIRY HIGHSCHOOL BIG INQUIRY GET A BIG! We do not need to create potential, we just need to defend it. The kids in our community are waiting for mentors who will stand with them to defend, ignite, and empower their potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters exists to create positive change in our community by matching youth with Bigs to build powerful friendships. LITTLE INQUIRY OUR IMPACT LAST YEAR 100% of matched Littles indicated having a trusted adult or adults in their life. 100% of matched Littles indicated a significant improvement in social acceptance and social competence. 86% of matched Littles maintained or indicated improvement in academic performance. 99% of matched Littles believed they are likely to graduate high school and hold higher aspirations for future educational endeavors since being matched with their Big . 94% of matched Littles indicated significant improvement in their attitudes toward risky behaviors like tobacco, drugs, and alcohol use. 82% of matched Littles maintained or indicated improvement in relationships and family. STAY IN THE KNOW! Join the FFY Newsletter to get the latest updates on our programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and more!
- PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS | Foundation For Youth
Foundation For Youth offers a wide range of programs to support both youth and adults in Bartholomew County. Our Programs: Boys & Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters Bartholomew County, Columbus Youth Camp, Athletics, Aquatics, TBRI: Foundation For Hope, Prevention Initiatives, Safe Place, and Council For Youth Development Bartholomew County. OUR PROGRAMS Foundation For Youth (FFY) in Columbus, Indiana, offers programs for youth as well as adults and families. Aquatics : From swim lessons to water aerobics, our aquatics programs promote water safety, physical health, and confidence for all ages. Athletics : Through basketball, volleyball, golf clinics, pickleball, and open gym, FFY encourages fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition year-round. Boys & Girls Club : BGC provides fun afterschool and full day summer programs with tutoring, homework help, and summer learning loss prevention for school aged youth grades K-12. Columbus Youth Camp : Set on 137 scenic acres, CYC offers a wide range of summer camps and outdoor adventures for retreats, field trips, and groups of all sizes. Take on the ultimate team-building experience at our challenge course or take part in activities like hiking or archery. TBRI: Foundation For Hope : TBRI offers a trauma-informed framework we use at FFY to help us respond differently with compassion, connection, and purpose. It is grounded in utilizing consistent language, nurturing engagement, and emotional regulation strategies that build trust and create lasting change. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bartholomew County : BBBS creates positive change in our community through 1:1 and small group youth mentoring programs. They develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of youth. Youth Ambassadors & ECHO Teen Council : The Youth Ambassadors and ECHO (Empowering the Community with Hope and Opportunity) empower Bartholomew County high school students through youth-led programs that build leadership skills, promote civic engagement, and elevate youth voices through community service, outreach projects, mental health awareness, and prevention-focused initiatives—creating meaningful, positive change throughout the community. Prevention Initiatives : Working with community members, coalitions, and partners, we promote positive mental health and address substance abuse and misuse in Bartholomew County. Safe Place : This is a national outreach and prevention program for youth in crisis. FFY is the licensed Safe Place agency responsible for operating the program in our community. For general questions or questions about a specific program, email info@foundationforyouth.com STAY IN THE KNOW! Join the FFY Newsletter to get the latest updates on our programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and more!
- TBRI VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF | Foundation For YOuth
Join the team at TBRI: Foundation For Hope Camp and make a meaningful impact on children’s lives. Volunteers and staff at TBRI Camp receive specialized training in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), helping children build emotional resilience and trust. Become part of a dedicated team fostering healing and growth in a supportive, compassionate environment! HOME ABOUT OUR PROGRAMS EVENTS RENTALS PARTNERS GET INVOLVED More... VOLUNTEERS & STAFF Finding Inspiration in Every Family To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. What is TBRI? For someone who is brand new to TBRI, this is the perfect place to start. This short video (just over 3 minutes!) gives a broad overview of how trauma affects the brain and alters the ability for children to learn and develop in optimal ways. ONLINE APPLICATION BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING FOR TBRI CAMP FOUNDATION FOR HOPE CAREGIVER TRAINING Through this training experience, community members and volunteer staff will learn about the Connecting, Empowering, and Correcting Principles of TBRI®. This is a full 2-day training (12 hour) provided by our partners at HopeAlight. While this is an important introduction into TBRI it is not necessary for all roles. PROFESSIONAL CONNECTION Many of our Volunteer Staff are community members who have gone through the full TBRI Practitioner Training at the Karyn Purvis Institute for Child Development. Through this conectiion to a community-wide TBRI effort, you may gain a better understanding, or even invited to other TBRI Camps around the country. HANDS ON EXPERIENCE WITH TBRI In the weeks preceding Foundation For Hope Camp you will receive training on your specific role at camp. Your role is assigned with your needs and experience taken into consideration. Much like they youth in our care, we want to meet the needs of our staff as well. You will have the opportunity to engage and practice your skills. JOIN A MOVEMENT TBRI represents a positive cultural shift in how we engage and care for youth. This change is taking root in schools, juvenile justice, and other youth-serving organizations. The more you are able to develop your skills, the more you can elicit dramatic cultural change in your own professional or family environment. STAFF & VOLUNTEER ROLES BUDDY Assigned as the primary support for a child participating in activities. Trauma-informed but ideally Caregiver trained. FACILITATOR Leads a Specialty Group Activity, ideally Caregiver trained. Options are Nurture Group. Crash & Bump, Mindful Movement, LifeSkills, Art, Sensory, and Voice LOGISTICS Assigned to set up and clean up areas such as activity and meal spaces. No prior experience is needed. Instructions and maps are provided. PHOTOGRAPHER Assigned to take and print photographs during all activities. Equipment and supplies provided. No prior experience is needed. FAMILY COACH Assigned to observe the children within a family unit to provide insight and support to their caregiver. MUST be a TBRI Practitioner or experienced in TBRI Implementation. TRIAGE TEAM MEMBER Assigned to assist with dysregulated youth. MUST be a TBRI Practitioner or experienced in TBRI de-escalation of high level 3 & 4 behaviors. REACH OUT TO US! Brian Cain , Columbus Youth Camp Director Lori Meyers , Johnson County Juvenile Justice FOUNDATION FOR YOUTH To Inspire and Enable Our Youth, Our Community ADDRESS CONTACT 405 Hope Ave Columbus, IN 47201 (812) 348-4558 info@foundationforyouth.com CUSTOMER SERVICE HOURS Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Please contact Customer Service for individual program hours. Foundation For Youth is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit.
- TEEN PROGRAMS | Foundation For Youth
Explore teen programs at Foundation For Youth, including Boys & Girls Club Teen Programming, Youth Ambassadors, ECHO, and CHARGED—helping teens grow through leadership, mentorship, life skills, civic engagement, and supportive relationships. TEEN PROGRAMMING ECHO (EMPOWERING THE COMMUNITY WITH HOPE AND OPPORTUNITY) ECHO is a youth-led leadership council made up of high school students in Bartholomew County who are passionate about creating positive change in their community. We bring together young aspiring leaders from across the county to elevate youth voices, strengthen mental health awareness, and lead prevention-focused efforts that make a real difference. LEARN MORE YOUTH AMBASSADORS The Youth Ambassador Program aims to empower youth to thrive in adulthood by developing their unique talents, cultivating healthy behaviors and relationships, and participating in community projects that make a difference. Youth Ambassadors (YA) are Bartholomew County high school students in grades 10-12 committed to meaningful civic engagement and personal growth. YAs serve through youth-driven outreach initiatives while strengthening their leadership skills and focusing on equity in their communities. LEARN MORE CHARGE PROGRAM CHARGED stands for Creating Holistic Achievement through Role Models, Guidance, and Empowerment for the Development of Teens. As part of Big Brothers Big Sisters, CHARGED connects teens ages 14–18 with caring adult mentors in small groups to build confidence, life skills, and positive relationships for the future. LEARN MORE THE CLUB TEEN PROGRAM The Boys & Girls Club offers a welcoming, supportive space for teens in grades 7–12 to grow, connect, and prepare for the future. Through after-school programs, college and career resources, hands-on experiences, and meaningful community connections, teens gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to discover their path in life. LEARN MORE FREE TEEN NIGHTS FFY Teen Nights at Foundation For Youth are the place to be for students in grades 7–12! Open to the community, Teen Nights happen one Friday each month from 6:30–9:30 PM and are packed with food, fun, and good vibes. It’s the perfect chance for teens to hang out with friends, meet new people, and enjoy a safe, welcoming space full of energy and excitement. Have questions? Contact bgc@foundationforyouth.com or call 812-348-4558 ext. 221. DOWNLOAD FLYER STAY IN THE KNOW! Join the FFY Newsletter to get the latest updates on our programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and more!

