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Cornelius News

20th Annual Big Day at the Lake is tomorrow

July 19. Some 240 “Bigs” and “Littles” from Big Brothers Big Sisters will be hosted by 52 Boat Hosts for a full day of fun on Lake Norman tomorrow.

Mayor Woody Washam declared Saturday, the 20th anniversary of Big Day at the Lake, “Big Day a the Lake Day.”

“This beautiful Lake Norman experience has truly offered an opportunity for encouragement and entertainment for hundreds of boys and girls over the years. This is the day that these special kids will never forget. It’s Big Day at the Lake Day in Cornelius,” Washam said.

This event provides children from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Carolinas a day of fun, friendship and unforgettable memories. Many have never had the opportunity to boat, swim or fish.

Details

Local families will serve as “Boat Hosts” and take the Bigs and Littles out for a morning of lake activities from 9 am to about noon when everyone heads to a picnic at Duke Energy Explorium. Some 400 people, including Boat Hosts, Bigs, Littles, volunteers and sponsors will enjoy traditional picnic foods, games, a water slide and music!

The event would not be possible without the support of sponsors, volunteers, and the local community.

Dozens of sponsors, region wide, are providing monetary and in-kind donations.

More than 75 volunteers provide fundraising and volunteer help, not only on event day, but throughout the entire year.

A generous community

“Reaching our 20th year is a testament to the incredible support from our community and the joy this event brings to everyone involved. We’re excited to celebrate this milestone with our Bigs, Littles, and all of our supporters, as well as thank everyone for so many years of generous support,” said Dave Yochum, founder of Big Day at the Lake.

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Donna Dunlap seen here with 12-year-old Little Sister Jaliyah is CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Carolinas

For 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters helps children realize their potential and build their futures by providing one-on-one mentoring relationships that provide friendship, guidance and educational tutoring. These mentors also help them develop relationships to widen their experiences and their world.

Quotable

“Big Day at the Lake is the highlight of the year for many of our Bigs and Littles. It’s a day where they can forget their worries, have fun, and build lasting bonds with their mentors,” said Donna Dunlap, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Carolinas.

Big Day at the Lake has raised over $100,000 this year and over $2 million for Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2004.