Vero Beach, FL – [June 17, 2025] — Two local nonprofits have joined forces to launch a summer program that brings over 20 children outdoors and onto the water to learn the lifelong skill of fishing and the importance of environmental stewardship. Helping Hands Program of South County and the Wabasso School of Fish are proud to share the launch of this exciting collaboration.
The program, designed for children ages 12 to 16, kicked off today with a dynamic first session that began in the classroom with lessons on fishing safety and rules. Each child then received a free fishing pole, tackle box, water bottle, bait, and hands-on instruction—preparing them for a unique, guided fishing experience on the Indian River Lagoon at the Wabasso Causeway. For nearly half the children in attendance, this was their first time fishing.
“This partnership is about more than just fishing,” said David Brachfield, CEO of Wabasso School of Fish. “It’s about building confidence, encouraging outdoor activity, and teaching kids to appreciate and care for the environment.”
“We focus on enriching the lives of each child in our program,” explains Laticia Boswell, Executive Director of Helping Hands “The opportunity to fish and learn about the outdoors coincides nicely with our academic, employment, outreach, and educational programming.
Helping Hands Program of South County, now celebrating its fifth anniversary, was founded with the mission of preparing children for success in school and in life. The nonprofit serves youth from kindergarten through high school, providing in-school and after-school support, enrichment programming, and parent engagement initiatives.
The Wabasso School of Fish is a newly established nonprofit organization with a vision to teach children how to fish while fostering family engagement and environmental awareness. This summer marks the beginning of a collaborative effort between the two organizations to offer weekly fishing and learning sessions that will run throughout the season.
Special thanks go to today’s volunteers, Wabasso Bait & Tackle Shop, and Problem Solving Plus for their generosity and vision in helping to create and facilitate this program. Their sponsorship and on-the-ground involvement have been essential in bringing this opportunity to life for local youth.
Helping Hands Program of South County and the Wabasso School of Fish are committed to continuing their shared mission of empowering children through education, outdoor experiences, and community partnership.
Media Contacts:
Laticia (Nikki) Boswell
Executive Director, Helping Hands Program of South County
HelpingHandsProgramSouthCounty@gmail.com
David Brachfield
CEO, Wabasso School of Fish
