C.A.S.T for Kids gives disabled children the tools to fish
REDDING. Calif. — Out in Shasta lake, a community of volunteers have come together to give some very special kids an awesome day of fishing.
CAST for Kids is a national nonprofit organization that hosts events all over the country, and uses the sport of fishing as a way to unite and encourage disabled kids within the community.
Executive Director of Cast for Kids, Jay Yelas says, “We put on these events for kids with special needs to celebrate them and show them they are loved and valued by their community and we rely on local volunteers to come out and bring their boats and help out on shore and volunteers make a kids day special.”
Many people within the Shasta community have volunteered their time to either help on the shore or help on the boats. 20 fishermen, some, even from out of town, made the trip out to volunteer their time and their boat for the morning.
One fisherman tells KRCR “this is the 5th or 6th year I've done CAST for Kids. I had a great time today truly is such a fun time and learning experience for the kids”
One father who brings his daughter every year mentioned his gratitude for this program and how much his daughter looks forward to it. “We are just very grateful for the people who made the event happen for their generosity and hospitality and she loves it”
After hitting the water at 7am, the proud fisherman returns with lots of new memories and maybe even a fish or two.
One boat captain says ”It’s always an incredibly rewarding day. Being a part of helping these kids learn a new skill and have a new experience is priceless.”
KRCR spoke with many volunteers that said how much they look forward to CAST for kids coming to the area.
Shore Volunteer says ”These children and families leave lasting impressions on everyone that works the event. The smiles mean the world to me.”
Guest relations director at bridge bay, Zach Morgan says, “It warms your heart to see how special and happy they are out here today and how excited they are to get on the water, you know we couldn't slow them down this morning. People are understanding of the disabilities they may face and that as a community we will all grow if we embrace those people."
Ending the jam-packed day of catching some fish, the kids then eat a well earned lunch and participate in a fisherman award ceremony before it's another wrapped day of fun with CAST for kids.
