An Inspirational Testimonial from an Adult Graduate of a Similar Program
As I was directing an on hands casting class, an adult passerby inquired if I was the director of the fishing program going on and I told him I was. He then shook my hand and told me because of a program such as mine he gained an interest and purpose that was previously void in his life. He embraced fishing and kept off the streets instead of in jail as he was headed. He then told me he read about my program in the paper and was honored to meet me personally.
It’s real testimonies like this man’s that inspire me to continue my efforts to making a difference in others’ lives. Seeing the kids I teach grasp new skills and the triumph they feel when they reel in their first catches are invaluable experiences that I hope will empower them in all areas of their lives.
My Personal Testimony
“Mr. Lucas”, I need your help!” are the frantic cries I have come accustomed to in my weekly fishing clinics that I offer to economically disadvantaged children. Whether it’s a tangled rod, encouragement, direction or guidance that’s needed, my students know that I will be there to help them. All fifteen students know I am committed and dedicated to them. Susan Boyd of Channel 12 News reported how the program has transformed lives. Many of the children have developed an interest, a purpose and gained a sense of accomplishment which they have implemented into their daily lives. My volunteers and I have served as agents of change to improve the lives of others through working as a team and being positive mentors.
Testimonies from Students
"I really like this class. It's cool and I like to fish because it is fun," said Geoffrey Mereno, a thirdgrader at J.C. Mitchell Elementary School, who said he wants to be a fisherman. "I can feed people and make money."
"Don't catch what you're not going to eat," said [Jessica Surpris], a fourthgrader at Addison Mizner Elementary School. "If you keep getting fish that you are not going to eat, they might go extinct and eventually we're not going to have fish to eat."
