Over $100,000 was raised for the Baker Youth Club during its annual fundraiser March 25. Tracy Furnivall, BYC executive director, said that through sponsorships, ticket sales and auction earnings, a total of $115,000 was raised. This more than doubles the fundraiser’s average amount of $50,000. Furnivall said that ABC’s “Bachelor” Ben Higgins and his fiancee Lauren Bushnell attending the event had a lot to do with the high results. Furnivall said he wanted to thank the community for being so supportive of BYC and its mission. He also thanked Higgins, who auctioned a date with him, Bushnell and the winner for over $7,000. The first things BYC aims to fix at its new home at the former YMCA are a serious roof leak in the area where the pool used to be and insulation for the entire gym, Furnivall said. The money will ultimately go towards keeping the doors open at BYC, so that children in Kosciusko County can keep being served.
