For the fifth year in a row, popular personalities, bowlers and corporate teams will be bowling for a cause as part of the “Lend a Hand” initiative. On November 16 and 17, all bowling alleys of the chain MegaXtreme Bowling they will open doors in support of Waterway Foundationwhich helps children and youth with motor, mental and sensory difficulties to improve their physical condition and achieve sporting success in adapted swimming tournaments.
Since its establishment in 2003, the organization has implemented various projects related to the development of aquatic rehabilitation and adapted swimming. The foundation helps children from 1 to 17 years old with cerebral palsy, visual and hearing disorders, hemophilia, disorders of the musculoskeletal system, Down’s syndrome, etc. The long-term experience of the team of specialist kinesitherapists and their professional attitude over the years have contributed to improving the quality of life of dozens of children with different abilities. “Water Path” prepares children and young people for participation in international tournaments in adapted swimming. The funds collected by the initiative this year will be used for the preparation and participation of the competitors.
“A diagnosis is not a label. You have to learn to fight. You must know and be able. Respect and recognition is built with knowledge and skills. Water is our world of knowledge and skills through which children will learn to cope with life’s challenges. They are ready for new successes and believe that they will represent Bulgaria in the best way at the upcoming tournaments in adapted swimming. You, too, support them in making their dreams come true,” says Velizar Petev, chief physiotherapist at the Waterway Foundation.
The official start of the event will be given on November 16 at 09:00 in the bowling hall at Joy Station in the “Studentski Grad” district. Olympic legend Maria Grozdeva, one of the most successful volleyball players Evgeni Ivanov, the presenter of the new bTV show “The Island of 100 Hryvnias”, the virtuoso pianist and participant in the romantic reality show “The Bachelor” – Evgeni Genchev. The favorite faces from the television screen, Natalie Trifonova and Valeri Genov, will participate in the charity bowling tournament. as well as one of the voices of bTV Radio – Nadezhda Vasileva.
Actors Filip Bukov and Anton Poryazov, as well as dozens of corporate teams, will support the cause, and the best will be awarded.
“Lend a hand” is implemented by the idea of the team of MegaXtreme Bowling (part of FANTASTICO GROUP) for the fifth consecutive year. Partners of the initiative from the first edition until today are bTV Media Group and the Bulgarian Bowling Federation (BBF).
“All children deserve to have equal opportunities, and we are the ‘big’ ones to provide them. To lend a hand to the groups that need support the most. To create responsible and useful content for our audiences and to share the good. The campaign “Lend a Hand” stands out for its social significance and once again athletes, journalists and celebrities join forces. Because we believe that everyone can contribute to the cause with their small actions and the power of a good example,” says Zhaneta Dyadovska, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at bTV Media Group.
“Lend a Hand” is a wonderful initiative that always manages to put big smiles on the faces of everyone who touches it. We at the Bulgarian Bowling Federation are proud to have been part of the initiative since its inception and look forward to this year’s fifth edition. We are extremely honored that FANTASTICO GROUP has chosen our favorite sport as a platform for the initiative, and we can’t wait to lend a hand to the Voden Path Foundation,” said Darin Trayanov, chairman of the BBF.
On November 16 and 17, all proceeds from bowling games played will be donated to support the activities of the Waterway Foundation.
HOW TO SUPPORT THE CAUSE?
- Play a game at the current price list at MegaXtreme Bowling;
– Create a “Team of Goodness” and participate in a charity tournament on November 16th and 17th at JoyStation.
The participation fee is BGN 400 per team with four participants. E-mail pre-registration is required: [email protected]
Bowling with a cause will be available in the following bowling alleys:
– MegaXtreme Bowling, “Studentski Grad” quarter, “Akad. Stefan Mladenov” street #3
– MegaXtreme Bowling, SkyCity Mall, “Geo Milev” quarter, 52 “Kosta Lulchev” str.
– MegaXtreme Bowling, g.k. “Lyulin” 6, blvd. Jawaharlal Nehru” (next to Silver Center)
– MegaXtreme Bowling, gr. Pernik, st. “Yuri Gagarin” No. 52, FANTASTICO, fl. 2
Interview between Time.news Editor and Velizar Petev, Chief Physiotherapist at Waterway Foundation
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Velizar! It’s a pleasure to have you here today. The “Lend a Hand” initiative sounds incredible. Could you tell us a bit more about how this event is structured and the goals it hopes to achieve?
Velizar Petev: Thank you for having me! The “Lend a Hand” initiative is a heartwarming event that combines fun with a noble cause. This year, on November 16 and 17, we will be staging a bowling tournament at MegaXtreme Bowling across the country. The main goal is to raise funds for the Waterway Foundation, which supports children and youth with various physical and sensory challenges. The funds will help these young competitors prepare for international tournaments in adapted swimming.
Time.news Editor: That’s fantastic to hear! Can you share how the Waterway Foundation has impacted the lives of the children it serves, particularly in terms of adapted swimming?
Velizar Petev: Absolutely! Since our establishment in 2003, we have implemented numerous projects aimed at aquatic rehabilitation. Our focus is on helping children aged 1 to 17 who face challenges such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other conditions. Through specialized kinesitherapy, we help improve their physical abilities, boost their self-esteem, and prepare them for competitive swimming. It’s rewarding to see these children not only gain essential skills but also flourish and believe in their potential.
Time.news Editor: What a profound impact! Your philosophy that “a diagnosis is not a label” resonates deeply. How does this shape your approach to working with the children?
Velizar Petev: Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child can achieve greatness, regardless of their diagnosis. We strive to instill a mindset of resilience and determination. By offering them the chance to engage in adapted swimming, we provide them a platform to learn vital life skills, learn to overcome challenges, and build confidence. We want them to know that they can fight for their dreams and aspirations.
Time.news Editor: It’s inspiring to hear about your approach and dedication. This year’s bowling event boasts a number of inspiring figures from sports and media. How important is their involvement in helping spread awareness for your cause?
Velizar Petev: Their involvement is crucial! Having prominent personalities like Olympic champions and beloved TV hosts participate not only brings greater visibility to our cause, but also helps us reach more people. Their presence encourages communities to rally around our mission and shows that everyone can play a part in supporting children with disabilities. We believe that everyone can contribute to our cause, no matter how small the action.
Time.news Editor: That’s a wonderful message. Can you share some of the projects the funds will support from this event?
Velizar Petev: Certainly! This year, the funds raised will primarily go towards the training and preparation of our young competitors for upcoming international events. It’s essential that they have access to quality coaching, facilities, and the necessary equipment to compete at their best. Additionally, we strive to continue and expand our aquatic rehabilitation projects, reaching more children who need our support.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing this vital information, Velizar. Lastly, for those inspired to support this initiative, how can they get involved?
Velizar Petev: There are several ways to get involved! First and foremost, attend the bowling event and cheer for the participants. Participate in the bowling tournament — all are welcome! Additionally, donations are always appreciated, and sharing our message on social media helps spread the word. Every little effort counts when it comes to changing a child’s life for the better.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much, Velizar! Your passion for this cause is incredibly inspiring. We wish you all the best for the “Lend a Hand” initiative and the impact it will have on the lives of these children.
Velizar Petev: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to share our mission with you. Let’s all work together to create a better future for these amazing kids!