A great time was had by all at this year's Outdoor Buddies Family Day event! Maintaining a safe and socially distanced experience, the participants got to enjoy fishing, BB gun shooting, archery, and quality time with family in the outdoors. In particular, Greyson got to build his confidence with fishing and was teaching others how to do it by the end of the event!
Greyson and his mom share about their experience:
"This is the second year my son has had the excitement of attending the Outdoor Buddies event at Swift Ponds. He spent the entire year between the two anxiously awaiting this years’ event, and the organization once again orchestrated a fantastic day for families to enjoy. Each station featured helpful and friendly volunteers that created a fun learning environment for everyone. We personally participated in the archery, bb gun and fishing activities. Each time the volunteers spent time engaging with, teaching, and encouraging participants, in addition to just being fun to chat with.
The most memorable part of the day was having the opportunity to actually assist at the fishing station. After catching what he decided was “more fish in one day than Mommy has caught her entire life”, my 9-year-old was presented with the opportunity to help a first-time fisherwoman. I am grateful that the volunteers allowed him to have that experience. I truly believe that it was a meaningful learning moment for him that will have a lasting influence. Hearing him cheer her on after she caught her fish was fun to see.
On a more personal note, we were also able to explore options to assist my father in returning to the field utilizing equipment and support that would prevent mobility concerns from being a barrier. Tony spent quite a bit of time discussing the licensing process and options with us while Terry demonstrated the specially equipped chair. Both offered continuing support as we progress through the process which could create the opportunity for a three-generation family hunt. Something that, prior to Outdoor Buddies, seemed unlikely. Now, however, it seems like a real opportunity to create a memory that I know neither my dad nor son would ever forget.
Thank you for a great day!"
-Stephanie
From Greyson:
"Hi, my name is Greyson and the experience I had at the Outdoor Buddies event was amazing. I was able to fish and teach other people how to fish. I also had the chance to meet some nice people that helped me whenever I needed help with something. My favorite part was teaching someone to fish and catching the large bass. I hope everyone gets to have an enchanted day with Outdoor Buddies like me.
Have a great day."
-Greyson
