There’s something powerful about what happens when a community comes together for a cause that means something deeply personal—and this year, we saw that in action at our 2026 Rockin’ Bowl-A-Thon.
Thanks to the incredible support of the MARC community, this year’s event raised nearly $34,000—the highest amount in Bowl-A-Thon history and a 15% increase from last year. A true testament to the generosity, passion, and commitment of everyone involved.
A New Level of Connection: Kingpin Sponsorship
Now in its second year, our Kingpin Sponsorship continued to grow, welcoming both returning and new sponsors. What made this sponsorship especially meaningful was the opportunity for sponsors to connect directly with our mission, and the individuals at the heart of it.
That connection began before the event.
During Draft Night, Kingpin Sponsors and MARC Premium Bowlers came together virtually for a live draft experience, giving bowlers a chance to showcase their personalities, share their excitement, and begin building relationships with community partners. It was more than preparation; it was the start of something meaningful.
On event day, those connections came to life. Kingpin Sponsors and MARC Premium Bowlers hit the lanes together in custom jerseys, united as teams for a great cause, and, of course, some friendly competition.
Community Support Across Every Lane
Beyond our Kingpin teams, the lanes were filled with a mix of new and returning teams whose energy and dedication made the day unforgettable.
This year also introduced our new Powerplay Sponsorship, with five community partners coming forward to support the event and invest in our mission.
We also want to recognize Hartford HealthCare – Hartford Hospital, one of our Kingpin Sponsors, whose impact extended beyond the lanes. Through the efforts of our Project SEARCH team and MARC staff member Rob Gagnon, nearly $2,000 was raised in just two days, an inspiring example of community in action.
Our Strike Zone Sponsors brought incredible heart and creativity, showing up in custom company shirts and decorating their lanes with handmade posters.
Additionally, we are grateful to Highland Park Market, Teddy’s Oil and Energy LLC, and Tankworks, who generously donated their lanes, giving our individuals the opportunity to fully enjoy the event alongside their friends.
More Than a Fundraiser
What truly sets the Rockin’ Bowl-A-Thon apart isn’t just the fundraising—it’s the energy, joy, and connection that fill the room.
We are especially grateful to Spare Time Vernon for helping bring that energy to life—encouraging our individuals to be themselves as they danced, sang, and lit up the lanes (especially during a crowd-favorite Sweet Caroline moment).
Each team, sponsor, and participant played a vital role, not only by fundraising, but by sharing their stories. Stories of why MARC matters, how it impacts their lives, and why inclusion is worth championing.
The Impact Lives On
Every dollar raised directly supports adults with disabilities in living meaningful lives filled with choice, independence, and inclusion.
But beyond that, this event fuels something even bigger—it strengthens a community that believes in a more inclusive future.
And if this year showed us anything, it’s this:
When a community comes together with heart and purpose, the impact is extraordinary.
Together with heart and purpose, the impact is truly extraordinary.
