As past president of the Take A Kid Fishing Foundation, Inc., I would like to share just a few of the many stories told by volunteers following last year’s event...
- Annette Holler

“In the Carteret County newspaper yesterday, my sister’s picture was in there with a young boy named Chris White from Oxford Orphanage. He really touched mine and my sister’s hearts. He is such a sweet young man. When he was leaving us on Tuesday, he looked at me and said ”all I want is my own fishing pole.” I asked him if there was anywhere that he could fish and he said no. We have called my brother who lives in Oxford to check into hopefully getting him for the weekend to take fishing. When my brother takes him, my sister and I will go to Oxford to join Chris fishing. Every day is such a blessing to us all. Out of all the kids, the Lord brought Chris to me. Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this event.”
- Tina

“Each year as a volunteer I have experienced many special moments and smiles. However, every year I meet one child that particularly touches my heart. This year it was a boy named Omar. He did not know how to fish and was particularly thrilled when I taught him how to cast. When he caught his second fish, which was bigger than the first - the smile on his face and twinkle in his eyes said everything. It is because of Omar and the many others I have met through the years that I continue to volunteer. I am very thankful for the opportunity to give back some of what God has given me.”
- Vicky

“I personally enjoyed every moment with the children. This was my first experience with the TAKF organization. I’m proud to say that I will be volunteering more often for this duty. It wasn't really a particular moment that stuck with me; it was just the fact that these kids were pulling up the smallest fish and were still overcome with joy on what they had just caught. They couldn’t wait to run up and down the pier to show everyone. Thanks for a wonderful time.”
- Dave

“I was on Capt. Stacy VI and it was my first time as a volunteer. The image I will remember is seeing the eyes and face light up as the little boy I was helping brought his first fish over the rail. It was one of the biggest smiles I have ever seen. Thanks.”
- Chris

“One little fellow from the Boys and Girls club came and asked me if I could please help him catch a fish? I told him sure. I asked him if he was holding his mouth right? He looked at me with a puzzled look. I told him that he had to put the biggest grin on his face and look at the water, and with as beautiful grin like his, he would bring all the fish to the top. Bless his heart, he stood there for about 30 minutes and finally looked at me and said ”Miss Tina, can I quit? My cheeks are getting tired.”
- Tina