Everett Julian, left, enjoys playing a Minecraft Dungeons arcade game at The Bowling Alley in Warsaw with his mother Terra Trytko as part of the fifth annual Bowling Against Bullying. Kids enjoyed free games, food and bowling through the event, meant to help children feel valued.

Text and Photos
By Leah Sander
InkFreeNews

WARSAW — At least 90 kids enjoyed free activities at The Bowling Alley in Warsaw on Friday, Aug. 19.

That was as part of the fifth annual Bowling Against Bullying. Started by Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Deputy Shaun Mudd, the event is meant to let kids know they are supported and valued.

Thanks to community donations, kids enjoyed bowling, food and arcade games. They also could get free backpacks and school supplies if needed through Combined Community Services.

Mudd also established the Bowling Against Bullying Rise Up! Scholarship Fund through the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, with money to eventually help kids who’ve been bullied pay for college. He plans to have a dinner this winter to raise funds for the scholarship.

People may also donate by going to kcfoundation.org/funds or sending money to 102 E. Market St., Warsaw, IN 46580, noting “Bowling Against Bullying Rise Up! Scholarship Fund” on checks.

The public also may message Mudd at his personal Facebook page or reach out to him through the Bowling Against Bullying Facebook group to learn more about donating or Bowling Against Bullying.

As for Saturday’s event, Mudd noted “people (were) leaving happy.”

“People that needed it are leaving happy, kids that need it,” he said.

Mudd mentioned the event was help people value each other because “this world is an ugly place.”

“Just be nice. Care about each other. Love one another and have fun,” he said.

Zac Miller, left, and Abi Hill spin a wheel in the arcade.

Damian Uriostegue, left, and Destiny Uriostegue shoot hoops.