MIDDLEBURY — The Counseling Service of Addison County’s fifth annual bocce tournament is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 21, at 9 a.m. at the Middlebury recreation field. The event will benefit CSAC’s Emergency and Crisis Services, available 24 hours, seven days a week for Addison County residents experiencing a mental health crisis.
Organizers say they are grateful that for the second year in a row, Hickok and Boardman HRI is the main sponsor of the event. Numerous local businesses and community members have signed up as sponsors and teams. Organizers say it is the generosity and spirit of the community that makes CSAC’s bocce tournament what it is — people from all walks of life coming together and having fun.
Bocce is an ancient game that’s fun and easy, and can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. Anyone who has never played before can come to “Bocce Boot Camp,” held just before the tournament begins. Those who would rather not play can contribute in other ways: by sponsoring a team, court or half court, or by working as a volunteer.
This year CSAC has received a $10,000 challenge gift from a donor who wishes to remain anonymous. This means that for every dollar people contribute, the donor will match it up to $10,000, doubling the impact of every gift.
“This is an amazing opportunity for CSAC,” said CSAC Executive Director Bob Thorn. “We really need our friends and supporters to step up so that we can take full advantage of this opportunity. We don’t intend to leave one dollar of that match on the table.”
Refreshments and a barbecue lunch will be provided for all participants. For more information about the tournament, to sponsor a court, or assemble a team, contact Ann or Rachael at 388-0302 or [email protected].