“Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others can not keep it from themselves.” J.M. Barrie
The C.A.S.T. for Kids event at Lake Bastrop, TX has been taking place for 26 years, making it one of the longest running events in the nation. When long-time event coordinator Ronda Karbach moved out of state a few years ago, Lisa Botello stepped up to keep the tradition alive. “I couldn’t let it go”, said Lisa, “this event is so rewarding for me and my family.” Lisa had helped serve as a co-coordinator for a few years, so she was aware of the volunteer work involved. “Coordinating a C.A.S.T. for Kids event can be overwhelming, but we didn’t want it to stop”, said Lisa. “C.A.S.T. for Kids is all about giving children with special needs a chance to experience the thrill of fishing, surrounded by love, laughter, and community support. My role? To make sure every detail — from registration to rod setup — ran smoothly so that each child felt like the star of the show.”
Lisa continued, “being an event coordinator for C.A.S.T. for Kids isn’t just about organizing — it’s about orchestrating and achieving moments of belonging and joy. It’s about creating a space where every child feels seen, celebrated, and empowered. And for me, it’s a calling I’ll answer again and again. It makes everyone who attends from the volunteers, boat captains and kids spread joy and their experience to others they meet. “
One of Lisa’s great attributes is she is always available to help others, including other C.A.S.T. for Kids event coordinators. With all her experience, she is a big asset to other coordinators. One activity she has found very helpful is to attend some of the monthly Chamber of Commerce meetings in her town. “I meet lots of people there, and invite them to be a part of Lake Bastrop C.A.S.T. for Kids. We find several volunteers, boaters, sponsors, and even folks who turn out to be new event coordinators at these Chamber luncheons”, she said.
Lisa and her family and friends have done a fantastic job keeping the Lake Bastrop C.A.S.T. for Kids event flourishing. “We love it”, she said, “one of my favorite sayings is ‘those who bring sunshine into the lives of others can not keep it from themselves’. So, whatever I can do for others makes me happy as well.”
When asked what her best advice was for other C.A.S.T. for Kids event coordinators, Lisa said “Start planning early, and don’t give up! The kids we serve never give up, so why should we?”
At C.A.S.T. for Kids, we are so thankful for all our volunteer event coordinators like Lisa. The events couldn’t happen without you. Your time is a precious gift to the children who attend your events. I think we speak for all the kids and their families by saying a big “Thank You!” to all our event coordinators.
