Here's a "Thank You" note the Cast For Kids organization recieved. It applies to those of us who were there:
My sister and brother-in-law along with my partner and myself had signed up our boys aged 6 & 5 to be part of the Cast for Kids day at Coulon Beach Park on Saturday, June 5. My sister and brother-in-law are foster parents who not only take long term foster placements but also emergency placements. What emergency placement means is that kids that need to be removed from an unhealthy situation right now must have a temporary place to go until DHSH has had time to see if there might be relatives available and stable enough for the child to go with long term. That was the situation this week when they got a young boy. We weren't sure how long he would be there, hearing that it may be for only a day or two at first, then having it extended for through weekend. He is such a sweet, sensitive boy that felt much comfort from the camaraderie my sister's boys and my son that we were dreading the thought of having him be left out of the fishing derby that they were so excited about. It was Friday when they learned he would stay the weekend and of course your event was filled up. On the off chance that I could reach someone I called and left a voicemail about our situation not really expecting anyone to respond in time. I can only imagine how busy everyone was the day before. But not only did I get a response within a few hours, I got a wonderful, compassionate response. Laura, who I understand is your daughter, called and left a voicemail with the number to the Cast for Kids line but also her cell number and a request that I call her back on either number and that she was anxious to talk to me about this. I called her back as soon as I got in and was able to reach her. I explained the situation and without hesitation said yes, there was room for him. Not only that, but that it was complimentary. Now, the fee that is charged is below minimal for what you offer to the kids but the sentiment behind her offer was profound. This little boy had never fished before and this day was, I believe, a day he will remember for the rest of his life. He caught his fish and his face was full of pride. He didn't want to get them cleaned because he wanted to keep them, we believe, to show his mom who he will be going back to next week. He's going home with his T-shirt, lanyard, lots of photos, and his fish. It could have been so different and just another disappointment in his young life, but thanks to your daughter it is a wonderful day for him to remember. We appreciate not only the fact that we were able to benefit from Laura's compassion but that you have raised a wonderful young woman who, I'm sure, impacts many people with her kindness as does your organization. Thank-you to Laura and all of the volunteers (they were all so nice and ready to help) who were on-hand to assist with the day. It really does make a difference in kids lives.
Sincerely, Kerri Winans
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