Dave Morin: Union Sportsmen's Alliance Take Kids Ice Fishing Event

Origin and Purpose of the Event

• 💡 Dave Morin initiated the "Take Kids Ice Fishing" event six years ago, inspired by existing "Take Kids Fishing" programs.
• 🎯 As a volunteer leader for the Union Sportsmen's Alliance (USA) and a member of IUEC Local 9, he sought to offer a unique outdoor experience.
• ❄️ The event aims to get Minnesota kids outdoors during harsh winters, providing an alternative to indoor activities like video games.

Community Engagement and Support

• 🤝 Union members from IUEC Local 9 volunteer their time, demonstrating strong support and validating Dave's dedication to the event.
• 👏 The collective effort involves punching holes in the ice and preparing equipment, making it easy for kids to start fishing immediately.
• 💬 The camaraderie among union brothers and the positive impact on the community are highly valued.

The Value of Outdoor Experiences

• 😄 The ultimate reward is seeing the smiles on kids' faces, such as a little girl catching her first perch, which Dave describes as priceless.
• 🌱 The event introduces families, some of whom have never fished before, to the sport, teaching them skills like filleting fish.
• 🎣 The goal is to foster a love for the outdoors, potentially leading to entire families enjoying ice fishing who otherwise wouldn't have.

Creating Lasting Memories

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Dave recounts a personal memory of his daughter, Ava, catching a large fish at Hunter Point, highlighting the creation of cherished family moments.
• 📸 These experiences are designed to provide memories that kids will remember forever, emphasizing the long-term impact of the event.

Partnership with Union Sportsmen's Alliance

• ✅ The Union Sportsmen's Alliance has been instrumental in the event's success, providing crucial direction and support from its inception.
• 🛠️ USA's support includes providing resources like ice houses and other necessary equipment, enabling the event to run for over five years.
• 🚀 Dave credits the Alliance for making the event a reality and for its continued annual support, which is essential for its sustainability.