Merrill teens start non-profit organization
Jared Schmeltzer
Reporter
What began as an idea in the spring of 2019 will soon come to fruition on June 20, with the first ever Fishing Inspires Special Hearts event.
Created by brother and sister Travis and Alexis Wright of Merrill, Fishing Inspires Special Hearts (FISH) is a non-profit organizations which was made to give kids with disabilities a day of fun, while learning new skills such as fishing.
According to Travis, fishing has been one of his favorite pastimes for his whole life, which helped him come up with this idea.
“I have been fishing my whole life and it’s always been something I enjoy doing” said Travis. “My sister and I have been active in working with kids with disabilities for four-years now and we both love fishing. so this idea just came to me.”
According to Alexis Wright the first event will take place in Mosinee and will feature 20 kids. Once at the event the kids will split into two groups, with one group fishing while the other group plays games and does crafts. The kids will be treated to a “grill out” lunch and the event will conclude with an award ceremony.
“Our goal for this event is to have fun with the kids and help them make special memories,” said Alexis. “The kids will have many activities to keep them busy throughout the day and we will end the day with a Celebration Time. Celebration Time will be an award ceremony where we will present the kids with something they can feel proud of and take home with them. The kids will also get to keep the fishing poles and tackle boxes we provide them as well as get a free t-shirt.”
The first ever Fishing Inspires Special Hearts event will be on June 20, at the Lake DuBay Lions Club Park, 1640 County Hwy DB, Mosinee. To sign up your special angler or to learn more on about Fishing Inspires Special Hearts. visit their website at http://www.fishinginspiresspecialhearts.com. The event is completely free and is limited to 20 kids. Attendance of a parent or guardian is required.