Goodrich- Special needs kids in the community are invited to a day of fishing that’s all their own.
Girl Scout Troop 31 is hosting a free fishing derby for special needs children living in the Goodrich area from 11 a.m.- 1 p.m., June 2 at the pond on Hickory Drive.
It’s an idea inspired by resident Jake Trubiano. Jake, 15, has autism spectrum disorder and a passion for fishing. Younger sister Andi Trubiano spoke with her Girl Scout troop to bring a fishing event for special needs kids, like her brother, to the community.
‘It is so cool. It is just the coolest thing you could ever go to,? said mother Gloria Trubiano.
Gloria explained it can be emotionally difficult for special needs kids as they get older to reconcile why they aren’t invited to the birthday parties and social outings many of their peers and siblings go to. Moreover, when they do attend functions, it’s often as a side note of sorts, rarely with them as the guest who garnered the invitation, said Gloria.
‘So when they get this invitation, it’s for them. This is the time that their family gets to go to something cool because of them,? said Gloria. ‘Then, the brothers and sisters are excited, too. It’s an outdoor day; it’s family time.?
The event is sponsored by the Kids All-American Fishing Derby, a private derby in which kids need only provide their own fishing pole, bait and a goody bag filled with items from sponsors will be provided at no cost to participants. There will also be prize drawings and contests, including a casting contest.Additionally, an officer from the Department of Natural Resources is scheduled to talk to the kids about environmental recreation.
If kids don’t have fishing poles, said Gloria, they should not let that prevent them from joining in the festivities, as a few extras will be on hand. Volunteers will be available to lend a hand with everything right down to baiting the hooks.
Gloria stressed students need not be enrolled in Goodrich Area Schools to participate. However, they must be special needs and accompanied by an adult.
‘Even if they don’t get to go to our school, they are still part of the Goodrich community and are still invited,? said Gloria.
Kids with any special needs’from speech impairments to more severe issues? are welcome.
‘It’s a bully-free zone, that is very important. Everyone is welcome,? said Gloria.
Donations are still needed for the event, with handicap-accessible portable toilets, bottled water and ice being the most necessary, desired items.
To ensure enough goody bags and supplies are available, Gloria asks parents try to register their children prior to the event. However, walk-ins will be welcome as well.
‘I want these kids to come and have their day,? said Gloria. ‘Their day in the sun.?