FAQ

Who can attend C.A.S.T. for Kids events?

C.A.S.T. for Kids events are designed for children with special needs ages 6-18. We provide adaptive fishing experiences for children experiencing visual, mobile, auditory, neurological, cognitive, medical, and psychological disabilities. Children must have a parent/guardian attend the entirety of the event with them. Family members are welcome to attend lunch and the awards ceremony. Contact Event Coordinator with any questions or to see if an older child can participate.

Are C.A.S.T. for Kids events free to attend?

Yes! All events are free for children to attend. Participants will receive their very own rod & reel, tackle box, event t-shirt, hat, and award plaque to keep. Members of your community have combined resources to make this possible for your child.

Do I need to attend with my child?

Yes! Each child must be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all times. No exceptions. The parent/guardian is responsible for the child during the entire event. Separation for any length of time will not be permitted, including bathroom breaks. 

Do I need to bring a life jacket?

No, but if you have a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket, please bring it for your child. Your Event Coordinator will have proper life jackets available for the event. Children must wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket at all times when on a dock or boat. No exceptions.

What can I expect at a C.A.S.T. for Kids event location?

Both shore and boating events have had their locations approved by C.A.S.T.. We can control many of the factors on site but not all of them. Consider your child’s mobility and personal preferences around docks, water, and boats. We’ll have the manpower on-site to help physically lift, push and pull but please don’t overlook: proper footwear to be worn for mud and wet areas, the extra wind around bodies of water & the loud noise of boat motors.

Can anyone volunteer?

Yes! Anyone with a heart to serve children with special needs is invited to volunteer. Fishing experience is not required. On average, volunteers serve 6-8 hours the day of the event. Volunteers are needed to assist with set-up and organization, registration sign-in processes, photo processes, fishing with children, preparing for and serving lunch, celebrating the children, clean up and more. Registration is required. Volunteers must be at least 12 years old. Children between the ages of 12-14 must serve beside a parent/guardian. We ask that all volunteers’ children under the age of 12 stay at home so that our event participants can have our full undivided attention. Contact the event coordinator with any questions. 

How do I bring a C.A.S.T. for Kids event to my community?

We would love to partner with you to host a C.A.S.T. for Kids event in your community! Find more information here.

Is C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation a 501c3 nonprofit?

The C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation is recognized as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions are deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donations will be applied at the discretion of the Foundation.

Can I donate with a credit card?

Yes, donate with a credit card now, or use the donate buttons on our website.

Can I donate with a check?

Yes, you may send your check donation to C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation, 2755 Commercial St. SE Ste 101, Salem, OR 97302.

How do I donate if I am giving in honor/memory of someone?

Memorial donations can be made online (There is the question “Honor or remember someone with your gift?” Select “Honor or Memorial” from the drop-down menu.), or you may send a check with a note of who it is in memory of to C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation 2755 Commercial St SE Ste 101, Salem, OR 97302. At your request (also part of the donation form), we’d be happy to inform the family of your donation.

Our family would like to make C.A.S.T. for Kids our charity in lieu of flowers. How do we do that?

In a few simple steps,  a page is set up in memory of your loved one here. (Click on the “Start Fundraising” button after clicking here to get started). The direct link can then be used on any announcements, obituary, program, etc. On the page, you are able to share your loved one with a few personal stories/memories. Supporters are able to donate online or by check. If you’d like help setting up the page, please contact Rebecca at rebecca@castforkids.org.

Do you accept in-kind donations?

In-Kind Donations can come in many different packages. Your service club can donate the dollars to purchase food for an event, you can donate the cost of printing, purchasing supplies, tents, gasoline for boaters, the sky is the limit! If you have an in-kind donation, please contact the foundation, and we will be happy to discuss this with you. Or, here is our current wish list:

  • Pontoon Boats
  • Pop-up Tents (E-Z Up, Quick Shade, etc.)
  • Folding Tables & Chairs
  • Airlines Miles

You didn’t ask for fishing gear? Due to our small staff, we don’t have time to receive donations of fishing gear and sell the items to benefit the Foundation. The best way you can help the Foundation is to sell your used fishing gear on Craigslist, then donate the proceeds to the Foundation.

How do I give to my local event?

We are so grateful for your desire to impact the kids in your local community. To make a donation to a specific event, please visit the event webpage and click ‘donate to this event’.

Do you accept workplace matching gifts?

Yes, numerous companies have developed programs that enable their employees to give back to their communities through payroll deductions, matching gifts and compensation for volunteer hours. Some companies also provide matching gifts. Please contact your Human Resources department to discuss this option.

I am a part of a company that is interested in sponsoring an event or partnering with the organization nationwide. How can I get more information?

Please contact the foundation and we will happily email you a packet of detailed information.

I am a Federal Employee. Can I give to your organization through workplace giving?

Yes, for Federal employees, C.A.S.T. is a member of the Combined Federal Campaign and can be referenced by the CFC #12017.