Local businesses are helping to provide free fishing for area special needs children at Gray Lodge Wildlife Area on Saturday, April 17, 2010.
Known as C.A.S.T., “Catch A Special Thrill,” this wonderful program provides disabled and disadvantaged children the opportunity to enjoy a quality outdoor recreational experience fishing on the water, as their website states at www.castforkids.org
David and Ann Baker of Gridley have taken this project on and made it possible for this program to come to Gridley where special needs children can fish with the help of a volunteer from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. for free.
Each registered child (up to 18 years of age permitted) will receive a fishing pole, tackle box, t-shirt and hat, along with a plaque with a picture of them with their volunteer who has helped.
Over 3,000 volunteers nationwide dedicated their time last year to allow over 12,000 youth the opportunity to cast their lines.
This will be the first time the Baker's have been involved in this program and they are hoping to make it an annual event.
With people like Steve Brazzel furnishing all the worms, Round Table Pizza providing food and Johnson's Bait and Tackle donating bait along with three Yuba City sponsors, it seems that the Baker's are well on their way to making this event very special.
Up to 40 kids will be allowed to register, although arrangements can be made if enough volunteers sign up to help that day. Volunteers are needed from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the Baker's have 50 volunteers signed up so far.
“We would like to have more of course. The first 40 volunteers receive a C.A.S.T. t-shirt for coming out and volunteering their time,” Baker stated.
This event will not only be socially stimulating for these special needs kids but it will provide excellent therapy promoting self esteem and confidence.
Registration for the children needs to be done by February 15 to ensure that all prizes are here in time for the event.
For more information or to volunteer contact Baker at 530-301-5254 or 530-846-2778.
