Special needs children and adults flashed big smiles as they caught lots of fish on Saturday for the 31st annual Community First Fishing Derby at Lake Casa Blanca International State Park.
The tradition, started 31 years ago by Judge Danny Valdez, was launched to help provide fun outdoor activities for special needs children. The event, which includes United Independent School District and Laredo Independent School District and Texas Parks and Wildlife, has evolved into a community experience that on Saturday attracted 116 special needs students and 332 family members. The special needs population ranged in age from 3 years to 21 years.
Also present at the event were UISD School Board Member Rick Rodriguez (District 2), U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Sheriff Martin Cuellar, Mayor Victor Trevino, and Valdez. They interacted with the special needs population and spoke of how the event has turned out to be a long-running tradition that the young children and adults look forward to yearly.
UISD officials from the special education department snapped photos of the students catching fish.
“It is amazing for students to experience the outdoors and to be able to experience how it feels to catch a fish,” said Frank Gutierrez, a director in the UISD Special Education Department. “This is something out of the ordinary for them and outside the classroom. They are spending time with friends outside of school and just spending a good time with family and friends.”
Equipment, including the fishing rods, were provided for those attending the fishing derby.
They also enjoyed rock painting, Zumba dancing and family picnics. Breakfast and lunch were provided.
“We are extremely happy that our students were able to participate in this beautiful outdoor experience. I am extremely appreciative of the support all our community members displayed to all our special needs students and families,” Gutierrez said.
He added, “A huge thank you to all those who participated and made this event a success. Our students will always cherish and take these beautiful memories with them. I can’t wait to do it all again next year.”
U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar and UISD Board Member Rick Rodriguez enjoy the day with special needs students at the 31st annual Fishing Derby
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