Eight employees volunteered at the annual Ohio & Erie Canalway Fishing Derby held May 29 in Akron, Ohio, where they helped inner-city youth bait hooks, use bobbers and cast – plus connect with each other and nature.

Rooted in environmental education and stewardship, the free event gave local elementary school children a priceless opportunity to make memories and gain respect for nature’s beauty, while also learning about the art of fishing, the Erie canal and its wildlife species.

All Akron-Area students in grades 3 and 4 were invited to participate and learn how to fish. Ohio & Erie Canalway organizers and volunteers provided all the fishing equipment and bait needed to facilitate fishing lessons during the unique hands-on experience. Refreshments, raffle prizes (including bicycles) and interpretive programming were also incorporated into the day’s festivities.

The derby is intentionally hosted every May to allow attendees an entire summer break post-event to practice their freshly acquired fishing skills – and to allow the event’s raffle winners an opportunity to enjoy their new bicycles.

“Seeing the joy on the kids’ faces when they catch their first fish and when they conquer the art of casting are some favorite moments for me,” said Samantha Szilagyi, Supplier Diversity & Contracts Supervisor, and derby volunteer.