The team challenges are part of the fun at the Give Every Child a Chance Antone E. Raymus Bowl-A-Thon.

GECAC CEO / President Christina Keefhaver is expecting much of the same for this 21st annual event at Bowlero Manteca, formerly the Manteca Bowl and Family Fun Center, that benefits the non-profit’s free tutoring program for kids struggling in school.

One such challenge in that of the Manteca Fire Department vs. the Lathrop-Manteca Fire District.

“That’s always a fun one,” Keefhaver said of the two-game competition – categories here include Heath Care, Government, Service Agency Organizations, Retail Service / Community Club, School, House of Worship, Financial Institution, Youth Group and After School Advantage Program.

This year’s Bowl-A-Thon – GECAC in partner with Bowlero – is Saturday, Feb. 29, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

“Get together with co-workers, friends or family and join us,” said GECAC Special Events Coordinator Sam Worthington. “It’s going to be a great time, and you’d be raising money for an amazing cause.”

The Bowl-A-Thon is a major fundraiser for GECAC. In addition to bringing people of all ages together, this event provides the funding to make possible the free tutoring and mentoring services to students in the Manteca, Banta, Tracy, Ripon and Escalon school districts.

Thanks to this local non-profit organization, they receive help with their school work while building up confidence and self-esteem.

The Bowl-A-Thon will again consist of five-bowler teams – the pledge per team member is raising a minimum of $50 each – with the total team registration at $250.

For youngsters, the top three individuals collecting the most money will be in the running for prizes – gift cards of $200, $150 and $75, respectively, to a store of their choice.

The school that collects the most pledges (minimum of $750) will receive a $250 shopping spree.

Classes collecting a minimum of $300 in pledges will get ice cream sandwich treats delivered to their classroom.

For more information, call 209.823.6222 or log on to www.gecac.net/bowlathon.html.