LETTER TO TEAM CAPTAINS

Welcome to Bowlathon 2005,

Bowlathon 2004 was our most successful yet bringing together 600 participants who raised $107,000! Our goal this year is to raise $125,000 and recruit 125 teams.

As we approach the end of our 30th anniversary, we turn toward the future and what lies ahead. Our work is to challenge the notion that violence against women and children is here to stay. While we have made strides to educate our community and end sexual violence, our reach has been limited. We realize that there is one area where our presence is not being felt enough–on the Internet.

We refuse to accept that girls will inevitably be harassed and assaulted. If information is power, we believe that young women and men can empower and transform themselves – through the technology they use daily.

In a series of consultations held with over 100 high school-aged girls they told us:

• Over 90% use the Internet
• 88% had gone on line previously to get health information
• 72% would use an internet chat room to ask questions or talk about assault

Your support ensures that we continue to enhance the capacity of young women to take control of their lives.

In order to meet our goal of 125 teams, we need more team captains like you. Do you know someone else who might step into that role? Please let us know, or have them call us.

One final idea – would you and your bowlers ask your employers to match any pledges that you raise? This is a wonderful way of encouraging corporate partnership and motivating bowlers.

Thank you for your efforts on our behalf. Where else do you see so much support generated in one afternoon of bowling?

We don’t want to be here thirty years from now.

Bowlathon 2005 Captain's package: