Cameron and CAST for Kids team up to offer fishing experience for kids with disabilities

The Cameron University Department of Education and the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation will join forces at Elmer Thomas Park this Saturday, April 11, to offer a free fishing experience to children ages 6-21 who have disabilities.

The event enables children with special needs and their caretakers to come together with community volunteers for a fun day of fishing from 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Space is limited to 40 participants and pre-registration is required. Children must be at least six years of age and have a parent or guardian stay with them for the entirety of the event. Family is welcome to attend lunch and the awards ceremony that ends the day.

Each participant receives a fishing kit that includes a rod and reel, tackle box, t-shirt, hat, photo plaque and a complimentary lunch.

"Events such as the one in Lawton spread a positive message that kids with disabilities can accomplish anything," said Dr. Holly Rice, a CU professor who is coordinating the event.

Rice noted that the event needs volunteers, especially experienced anglers with basic knowledge who can work one-on-one with youngsters and help set up fishing tackle. Additional volunteers are needed to help with event set-up and clean-up, registration, and preparing and serving lunch.

Participants and volunteers can register at https://www.castforkids.org/event/elmerthomaspark. Questions about the event can be directed to Rice at 405-269-6279, or Tiffany Hamilton at 580-581-2319.

The C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation - C.A.S.T. being an acronym for "Catch a Special Thrill" - hosts fishing days in 26 states. The organization provides adaptive fishing experiences for children experiencing visual, mobile, auditory, neurological, cognitive, medical and psychological disabilities.

PR#26-031