NRV Sportsmen For Kids Special Needs Fishing Day 2025
- NRV Sportsmen For Kids
- Aug 11
- 1 min read
Published: Aug. 9, 2025 at 6:10 PM EDT
DUBLIN, Va. (WDBJ) - Smiles, laughter, and the thrill of a big catch filled Claytor Lake State Park as kids of all abilities took part in the NRV Sportsmen for Kids Foundation’s second annual Special Needs Boat Day.
Dozens of volunteers came together to make sure every child had the equipment, guidance, and encouragement they needed to enjoy a day on the water.
“It’s great. That way we can make memories together, have a lot of fun on the lake, enjoy being around all the other people and let them fellowship with a lot of the other kids,” said parent JR Hylton.
Organizers say the event goes beyond fishing. It’s about building confidence, fostering friendships, and creating lasting memories.
“We want them to come out here and be able to enjoy nature, things they wouldn’t normally get to do and make connections with other folks,” said Glendon Jones, president of NRV Sportsmen for Kids.
The foundation relies on fundraising, boat donations and the commitment of volunteers to host the annual event. Jones says community support is essential to keeping it going.
By the end of the day, organizers say the biggest prize wasn’t the fish, it was the smiles.
“They’re excited because it’s something new for them, and they’ve been looking forward to it all week,” Hylton said.
The NRV Sportsmen for Kids Foundation says its mission is to make the outdoors more accessible to children of all abilities, ensuring every child has a chance to enjoy experiences like this one.
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