The sounds of joyful chatter and the buzz of hurling bobbers filled the fishing platforms May 8 at Geauga Park District’s Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve in Munson Township.
The sounds of joyful chatter and the buzz of hurling bobbers filled the fishing platforms May 8 at Geauga Park District’s Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve in Munson Township.
Anticipation built as buses rolled into one of the park’s most popular and scenic catch and release fishing stops.
Geauga County Rotary clubs celebrated another successful event for children with special needs, made possible through a community of first responders and volunteers spearheaded by Burton Middlefield Rotary Club member Jim Dvorak.
“It is a fantastic chance to work with the kids. In many cases this is the only time that they have the opportunity to go fishing,” Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildebrand said. “They all seem to really enjoy the experience as the helpers do also. Rotary’s mission is ‘Service Above Self.’ It is an honor to assist Rotarian Jim Dvorak to bring a pleasurable experience to these kids.”
This year’s school outing welcomed 52 students from Chardon, Berkshire, Crestwood and West Geauga Schools.
Dvorak said all the students caught at least one fish.
Some caught even more — like Blake, from Berkshire Schools, who said his favorite part of the fishing event was the discovery of snail shells, being outside in nature and meeting the volunteers who helped him to cast and catch fish.
“The children (with special needs) are often forgotten or left behind in some outdoor activities,” Dvorak said. “The schools and students look forward to this event every year. Over the years, we have been buying fishing poles and equipment. I am happy to say we now have 70 fishing poles and all the equipment for many years to serve the community and open doors and opportunities for these children.”
Ashley Brzozowski, Berkshire Schools director of pupil services, has been bringing students to the fishing event since she was an intervention specialist in Geauga County.
She said even though her role has changed, she still makes it a priority to attend.
“Watching our teachers support the students and seeing their excitement is one of the highlights of my year,” she said. “This year, we brought 15 students and it was as special as ever. This trip is more than just fishing. For many of our students, it’s their first time holding a rod, casting a line or even stepping into a park like this. It’s a chance to connect with nature, build confidence and experience joy in its purest form. The first responders go above and beyond to make each child feel supported and celebrated—it’s a reminder of the good in our community.”
One of her students caught a fish and shouted, “I’m going to be famous now,” while another spent most of the day chatting with the volunteers and learning how to tell if a fish is a keeper.
“These little moments of connection, laughter and learning are what make this day so meaningful,” Brzozowski said. “We’re grateful for the continued partnership with our local first responders and Mr. Dvorak, they help create lifelong memories for our students.”
Dvorak said children love seeing the fire trucks and the first responders.
“More children should enjoy the Geauga Park District and the great outdoors,” he said. “Once people help out or participate in these special needs fishing events, they are hooked.”
