Tim Bennett, executive director, Big Brothers Big Sisters Prince George – photo 250 News

Prince George, B.C. – A fundraiser aimed at raising money for local mentoring programs has exceeded expectations.

Yesterday’s fifth annual Big Squeeze – hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters Prince George – has raised over $12,500 so far.

Executive director Tim Bennett expects that number to rise by the end of today once competitors in the Restaurant Challenge donate their proceeds.

The fundraising total is already double what was raised last year and above the $10,000 goal the non-profit had this year.

Over 30 competitors took part by making their own lemonade by donation.

AiMHi took home the Lemon Trophy for raising the most money ($4,089) while Play Grounds Café took home the Lemon Trophy for top tasting lemonade.

So, what does Bennett attribute this year’s success to?

“I think competitive spirit is probably part of it. I know last year AiMHi lost out on their (fundraising) trophy by $14 and they were committed and in it to win it this year,” he says.

“We also had some really generous donations that came in where local business people stepped up and brought checks for $500 or $1,000.”