As CTV Ottawa anchor Max Keeping approaches his retirement, his commitment to local charity isn't slowing down. Among his many public appearances lately was taking part in the annual Max Keeping Birthdate Bowlathon on Sunday, which aims to help out disadvantaged kids.

"It's an amazing cause," said Mary Theresa Orpen, one of the bowlers taking part in the event, in its 16th year. "Max is an amazing man, and we want to help out. It's a great feeling, helping others."

Last year's bowlathon raised nearly $100,000. This year's event is still being tallied in dollars, but the moral support from bowlers there was as strong as ever.

Keeping's imminent retirement prompted a play on costumes this year. Members of one team called themselves Max' Days Off.

"We are the occasions when Max can get five minutes to himself, because I'm not sure he gets any time off," joked Maxine Brown, a bowler from that team.

Carol Anne Meehan, Keeping's long-time on-air partner, and forthcoming senior news anchor Graham Richardson teamed up as the Junior Anchors.

"It's a salute to Max," Meehan said. "He's been senior anchor in this city, and we have to continue what he's doing."

Added Keeping, his retirement from broadcasting will not signify his retirement from community service. He said he has every intention of attending next year's bowlathon.

He will retire March 26, but will remain at CTV Ottawa as community ambassador afterwards.

"If there's an economic difference, let's erase that," Keeping said. "No one should, in this community, not be able to reach for their dreams."

With a report from CTV Ottawa's Joanne Schnurr