We Can Fish provides a unique learning opportunity for special needs children

We Can Fish is a Coachella Valley nonprofit that works with special needs children and their families by putting together fun activities focused on fishing. The fishing events teach the children that they can overcome limitations, because kids with disabilities are able to accomplish so much. It also makes them feel valued and loved. There’s always a feeling of togetherness and achievement.

On Nov. 5, We Can Fish hosted one of its fishing expeditions at Aziz Farms in Thermal. More than 100 attendees, including special needs children and their parents, siblings and friends, participated. We Can Fish averages about five fishing trips a year. Their big annual event occurs in October at Big Bear Lake, complete with boat trips.

Carla Rizya, the organization’s president, said: “With fishing, there’s a real joy for these kids of being outside. And the thrill and sense of accomplishment in catching a fish. The children are learning about patience, coordination and caring for the environment. Truly, they’re learning about things that we never would have dreamed of.”

“A lot of people might have the impression that fishing is … well, boring,” said We Can Fish spokesman Baldemar Orduno. “But the proper casting, the anticipation and composure — it’s all very therapeutic for the children.”

We Can Fish also serves as a great resource for parents of special needs children. “When you first get a diagnosis, the number one concern is your child’s health,” said Orduno. “And then comes worrying about their quality of life. But as time passes, getting involved in organizations like We Can Fish makes things so much better for the kids. And for the parents, too. It’s a great support group that make us feel like we are not alone. The warmth and love that emanate at these events is amazing.”

Jackie and Gregory Magnuson attended their first We Can Fish event at Aziz Farms with their five boys, Samuel, Joshua, Joseph, Paul and William. “I wanted my children to have their first fishing experience in a calm, positive environment, with people who understand children with disabilities and their challenges,” Jackie said. “I know that going to events like this creates opportunities for our kids to learn about communication and teamwork and helps them gain self-confidence.”

Including the siblings of those children with special needs is an important objective at We Can Fish events. “So many of the siblings are incredibly kind-hearted, but they often don’t get the opportunity to do these fun activities,” Rizya said. “We want to make sure that they enjoy the fishing and feel special and appreciated, too.”

The nonprofit also partners with other similar groups. Organizations including Angel View Outreach, Ezekiel’s Gift of Love, Olive Tree Occupational Therapy, Padres Con Ganas, SoCal Adaptive Sports, UCP of the Inland Empire, and Variety – the Children’s Charity of the Desert participated in the event at Aziz Farms.

“I think that’s exciting for the kids in the valley, and for the parents, that we are coordinating our efforts and accomplishing more by increasing the frequency and accessibility of our programs,” Rizya said.

After the event, Jackie said: “I felt so thankful to all the wonderful people who made this happen and worked with my boys. People from all abilities came together in a safe, loving environment. There was no judgement or criticism. We felt truly welcomed. And when we got home, the children were so happy and thankful. They’re all looking forward to going fishing again!”

To learn more about We Can Fish, visit wecanfish.org.

Sergio Garcia enjoys writing about the good people that do great things in our community. He’s also a proud member of the “We Can Fish” volunteer team. Contact him at sergio071364@aol.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: We Can Fish provides a unique opportunity for special needs children