Children Participate in Day of Sailing
EASTPORT, MARYLAND - Today, 30 at-risk children from Washington, DC learned to sail on the Chesapeake Bay. The children are members of a unique program called "The Fishing School."
The Fishing School is a safe haven for vulnerable children who live in Washington, D.C. The organization accomplishes its mission through a number of services, which include tutoring, community resource referrals, spiritual enrichment, and recreation for children and families in need.
Sailing and other educational opportunities were held for children ages 10-12 who are currently enrolled in The Fishing School's summer program. The event was supported by local companies such as AXA Advisors, Greyhound Bus Lines, J-World Performance Sailing School, The Coca-Cola Company, Ingenium Corporation, Capitol Tax Partners, MFS Funds, Williams & Jensen, Tongour Simpson Holsclaw Green, along with individual contributions from Rob Wallace and Mark Lowham.
Prior to sailing, Sue Hunter, a Marine Biologist from the Baltimore Aquarium, spoke to the children about the fish and wildlife of the Chesapeake Bay. For many of the children, most of whom live in the inner city of Washington, this was their first opportunity to experience the
Chesapeake and all of the wonders that it holds.
The Fishing School, and many other programs like it in the United States, barely survive with private donations and volunteers. Today's event was organized by the Wyoming State Society, which has been actively involved with the School for the past six years.
"I spent years watching my community being torn down. This is my way to build it back up," said Tom Lewis, the founder of The Fishing School and a former Washington, D.C. police officer. Lewis left the Washington police force in 1986 to establish The Fishing School. He has since dedicated his life to The Fishing School and its students. "Watching these kids use their
new-found knowledge and apply it at the helm of a 30-foot sailboat is so special. The kids make the program work," Lewis concluded.
In January, President Bush and U.S. Senator Joseph Lieberman stopped by the The Fishing School to announce the Charitable Choice Initiative, a White House sponsored program which seeks to give federal dollars to faith based organizations.
- More -
Artwork featuring today's sailing event is slated for auction tonight at a Maryland Crab Feed being held at the J-World Sailing School. The proceeds of the auction and donations collected from those attending the feed will go directly to The Fishing School. Kathryn Leonard, who resides in the Annapolis area, created the artwork. She is nationally recognized for her
commercial and fine-art works of the Chesapeake Bay and sailing scenes.
The Crab Feed will include over 150 guests from areas around Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis, Maryland.
- 30 -
|
