For long-time coordinator, Brenda Paquette, the C.A.S.T. for Kids event is truly a family affair. Her family has been touched by autism and ADHD, so she easily identifies with the benefits of a C.A.S.T for Kids event.
Brenda’s grandson as Otto the Otter during the awards ceremony
Another grandson, who has ADHD, has enjoyed going out fishing at the C.A.S.T. for Kids event for a few years. This year, he was one of the event’s volunteers that helped escort the kids through the registration line. He also loved on kids as their Otto the Otter mascot. It was heartwarming for Brenda that he wanted to give back and help others experience the joy of fishing as he had.
Her daughter, granddaughter, and daughter-in-law all help at the event in some way. They start the day long before the sun is up, but at the end of the day, they all feel very blessed that they were able to help give the 45 special kids and their families a day filled with wonderful memories.
It can be challenging to recruit volunteers that are willing to give a Saturday of their time to help with the event. But every year, the volunteers show up and pull it all together. Brenda never stops being in awe of the generosity of the boat captains and numerous volunteers.
Her favorite part of the event is the awards ceremony. She loves listening to each of the kids’ unique stories about their fishing adventures with their boat captains. They tell tall tales about the huge fish that got away and how exciting it was to drive the boat. The smiles and sparkles in their eyes as they speak is what makes the long day for Brenda worth every minute.
The big smiles reward Brenda for coordinating year after year
To commemorate the event each year, she creates a picture book from the pictures taken before, during and after the event. It’s sure fun to look back over the years and see the common thing they’ve had in each picture every year- those big smiles!
Those big smiles are on the faces of the shore volunteers, boat captains, parents and siblings, but most importantly, on our very special kids!
I have been going to C.A.S.T. for about eight years. The volunteers are awesome! Brenda helps me out every time I go with Nathan Pike. The best experience watching all the kids and adults intervene. So fun and beautiful. This event we look forward to every year. I used to take my granddaughter Jessica who passed away four years ago. She loved it. Thank You! Thank You!!!
Karen Beason
Karen, we are so glad you have so many wonderful memories from attending the Lake Pleasant event. They really have an amazing team of volunteers with Brenda at the helm who make the magic of the day happen! I’m so sorry to hear about your granddaughter. It warms my heart to hear how much she loved participating in the event! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!!