Regional bowling chain raises $1 million for veterans

Maple Family Centers recently passed the $1 million mark in fundraising for veterans’ charities. The milestone was marked by a celebration hosted by the LaSpina family, owners of Maple Family Centers, on Wednesday, Feb. 4 at Maple Lanes RVC in Rockville Centre.

Veterans, professional bowlers, league bowlers and dignitaries joined members of the LaSpina family as they presented the latest fundraising dollars to Bowlers to Veterans Link (BVL), a national charity that supports local therapeutic recreational programs for veterans and active-duty military servicemembers.

“At Maple, we love our veterans – they put themselves in harm’s way to protect us all, much like the first responders did on 9/11,” said Maple President John LaSpina. “We are so proud to pass the $1 million mark in funds raised for BVL and to show that one small company can make a big difference.”

Funds raised for BVL by Maple are directed to veterans’ organizations in New York and Florida.

The company has also engaged its customers in supporting BVL through checkout round-up campaigns and by incentivizing customer donations with free game coupons, merchandise and matching contributions.

“Our bowlers have enthusiastically joined us in the cause and have given very generously to help make a difference in the lives of our heroes,” LaSpina said.