HAYWARD, Wis. — Kathy Overman was a Girl Scouts leader when she first got involved with Fishing Has No Boundaries (FHNB) in the late 1980s. Since then, she and her four daughters have helped take people fishing who otherwise would not have the chance.
Today, Overman also is business manager for the national organization that provides fishing opportunities for those with disabilities and wants B.A.S.S. Federation Nation members to know that FHNB would be a great fit for individuals and clubs looking for a project to support and/or an event to sponsor in their community.
“One of our main goals is to let people know they do not need to be afraid or unsure of themselves when taking someone with a special need fishing,” she said. “There is no place more special than the outdoors, and nothing better than sharing that time together.”
Right now, FHNB has 22 chapters in 12 states, with 5,000 volunteers. Each chapter stages at least one outing a year, as well as fundraisers to support the event. The national office provides insurance coverage for the activities; each chapter pays $25.
A bass club can form its own chapter or volunteer to help a chapter in its area. It also can donate special needs equipment to FHNB and/or funds to buy items such as rod braces, electric reels and life jackets.
Overman is eager to provide more information. Call her at 800-243-3462 or 715-634-3185, or learn more about FHNB and how your club can help at www.fhnbinc.org.
“You don’t get paid for doing this,” she said. “But you will get a smile from someone because of the unbelievable joy you bring to their heart.”