This Group meetUP began with a tasty lunch in a private room across from the lanes that Mentoring Matches would soon take over. After pizza, salad and soda, everyone laced up their two-toned, borrowed shoes to bowl in the Back Alley VIP Lanes that featured black lights, fun music and plenty of space to mingle.

After bowling, the youth received a handful of tokens and quickly led their mentors into the flashing arcade. From racing in driving simulators to testing their strength on the carnival hammer or shooting mini hoops, the Matches also engaged in plenty of one-to-one bonding time during this group event.

While they had a great time, Group meetUPs allow teens from foster care to enjoy more than just fun moments–they help to build confidence, a sense of community and, most importantly, resilience. While the activity may be new or challenging, these recreational events happen within a safe and supportive environment.

Such positive interactions allow youth to grow, develop skills, release stress and store up positive memories. As these benefits combine, young minds and bodies can heal from trauma. And, in bowling terms, that’s a STRIKE!