Kids First Cast Inc

This organization realizes the challenges and all of the distractions that face kids and families today. Our youth is now more at risk than ever before due to inactivity, leading to early onsets of diabetes, cardiac risk, obesity, as well as disconnecting from the natural world. It is the mission of Kids First Cast, Inc. to inspire our youth and their families to engage in healthy activities while promoting a connection to nature, while also enjoying the values of fishing and being outdoors. Fishing and being outdoors is a great way to "unplug" from the stresses of daily life. By helping kids learn the fundamentals and the ethics of fishing and conservation, this will give them new skills along with a sense of personal achievement. It will help to promote self-esteem and confidence while stimulating kids socially and helping to keep them physically active outdoors.

This organization partners with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game in over 55 fishing events through the year, with over 2500 participants for the fishing season (March - July). Last year alone Kids First Cast mentored and fished with over 3500 kids and their families to transform them into fishing enthusiasts for life. To make these fishing events successful, this organization actively purchases, and continues soliciting donations of rods, reels, and tackle.

To be able to provide these kids and families with the means to go fishing, our organization seeksl donor solicitations and promotes special events. Fundraising takes place for programs endorsed by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors consists of 4 non paid volunteers. Through various partnerships endeavors, non-profit organizations, public charities, individuals or corporations that operate in and beyond Canyon County and in Idaho. Volunteers help with fundraising events and various types of activities to gain support and awareness for this organizations cause and purposes. The annual fundraising event, Cabin Fever Reliever, is a free event held the first Saturday in February at Karcher Mall. Kids are given the opportunity to learn fishing basics from professionals such as; casting, holding a rod and reel, and tying flies. There are community partnering organizations that will be encouraging kids to have "hands-on" experience with archery, conservation, and water safety.

The rewards for this program and its volunteers are watching kids and families catch their first fish. The excitement of seeing their eyes light up along with that huge grin that comes while reeling in that first fish. This organization also enjoys reaching out to people in our community that might not have ever had an opportunity to fish and learn about conserving our natural resources. This organization wants to make a positive impact in lives through fishing and conservation efforts.

We feel that our organization and its mission support the goals of this foundation in 3 areas; 1) by providing educational support to future generations, 2) helping kids and their families have means to learn about fishing and conservation, 3) helping to protect and conserve our natural resources.

By contributing to the character and resources of our community, we can improve our community's sustainability while protecting the way of life and conserving Idaho's valuable and natural resources. What better way to give back to our kids and for generations to come.