The local curling season is underway and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Yukon (BBBS) is looking ahead to the Curl for Kids’ Sake.

The fundraising event is set for Nov. 8 at the Whitehorse Curling Club.

BBBS executive director Shelby Maunder said the organization is aiming at making its curling event bigger and better, due in part to the uncertainty surrounding the local bowling alley in Riverdale.

The Curl for Kids’ Sake will feature several challenge divisions where teams compete for bragging rights, but not in the traditional way.

The event is pure recreation – scoring is optional. It’s an opportunity for complete novices to experience the game of curling.

The competition aspect is about which team can collect the most in pledges from friends, family and co-workers.

The day starts with a learn-to-curl session for those with limited or no experience.

Safety is an essential ingredient in the course facilitated by experienced club members.

Players are taught very basic techniques and proper use of equipment which is supplied by the club.

After a break for refreshments, the teams then take to the ice to practise their newfound skills in the first of two games available.

Lunch will include a hot pizza lunch, many door prizes, a fabulous silent auction and a live auction for some high-profile prizes.

The feature item is a weekend for two at Big White Ski Resort courtesy of Big White and Air North.

After lunch, teams may play a second game.

The charity challenge is categorized into banks, corporate, and family and friend divisions.

All interested players are welcome to attend and are encouraged to form their team of four or five players or attend as a single.

Participation costs nothing except collected pledges that historically have ranged from $100 to more than $1,000 per team.

Last year, the Curl for Kids’ Sake raised more than $12,000 for BBBS Yukon which provides mentoring programs for children who want and need mentoring.

Both community and site-based mentoring programs are offered by BBBS in Whitehorse, Watson Lake and Dawson City.

In addition to funds raised at charity events, BBBS Yukon is supported by United Way of Yukon and the Yukon Government – Department of Education, Department of Health and Social Services and the Youth Investment Fund, as well as local companies Air North, Fraserway RV and Co-operators.

Businesses may be recognized as an event sponsor with a donation of $200 and tax receipts are provided to all collected pledges over $20 with complete donor information.