Rutland, Vt. – Community Care Network (CCN) today announced the creation of the Larry Wildes Memorial Bowling Fund, a pool of supportive funding designed to enable individuals with developmental disabilities to participate in CCN-led bowling activities at a reduced cost.
The fund, which aims to secure new donations moving forward to ensure long-term sustainability, was made possible by an initial, anonymous donation of $10,000 in memory of Larry Wildes, a long-time Community Care Network client and avid bowler who passed away in 2022 at the age of 59.
“We are so excited to announce the development of the Larry Wildes Memorial Bowling Fund, and so incredibly appreciative of the generous donation that helped us to establish this new supportive program,” said Jen Champine, Community Supports Program Manager with Community Care Network. “Larry was one of our most passionate bowling program participants each and every year, and we are thrilled to be able to utilize this fund to honor Larry and help others with developmental disabilities enjoy the sport of bowling as well.”
Larry Wildes, a former resident of West Rutland, first began bowling with his two brothers in high school in 1973 and remained active in the sport until his passing last year. He competed at the state level in Special Olympics events for many years, acquiring many bronze, silver and gold medals for his efforts.
“Larry really enjoyed the camaraderie and sense of community that his various bowling activities provided, along with the satisfaction of a great roll,” said Rick Wildes, Larry’s brother. “Going to the Special Olympics was a highlight of the year for him and my parents who would accompany him.”
In addition to his time spent bowling and enjoying relationships with Community Care Network staff, Larry was active in the broader Rutland community as a volunteer at the Rutland Free Library. He also enjoyed attending dances that were organized for his community, as well as other social activities.
“If I had to describe Larry in one word it would be gregarious,” said Wildes. “He also had a keen sense of humor, usually culminating in a good laugh. Larry loved bowling and all that it gave to him; our family is truly pleased by the creation of the Larry Wildes Memorial Bowling Fund.”
To contribute to the Larry Wildes Memorial Bowling Fund, please contact Jen Champine, Community Supports Program Manager with Community Care Network, at 802-786-7326 or jchampine@rmhsccn.org.
To learn more about Community Care Network’s Developmental Services Program, visit www.rmhsccn.org/developmental-services.
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About Community Care Network: CCN is comprised of Rutland Mental Health Services and Rutland Community Programs. The programs of Community Care Network serve more than 3,000 people each year throughout Rutland County across the areas of behavioral health, developmental disabilities, substance use recovery, volunteer and early childhood education services. CCN is focused on enhancing the health and well-being of those it serves through responsive, innovative and collaborative services that offer support across the lifespan. To learn more, visit www.rmhsccn.org.
