Avid fisherman, Jeff Harman, has turned his passion for fishing into an opportunity to bring hope and smiles to the lives of vulnerable children at the Malvern Child and Youth Care Centre. While many other boys have the privilege of happy memories of their dad teaching them how to fish, the boys living in a children’s home grow up deprived of father and son bonding experiences.
“While attending a Leadership Summit at Grace Family Church, one of the speakers spoke about the parable of three men who were asked to look after a sum of money for their superior. This made me think about what I am doing with what has been given to me and led me to starting the Fishing 101 course where I can share my knowledge and passion for fishing with those less fortunate. So, after much prayer and guidance from God and consultation with Malvern Child and Youth Care Centre, we introduced the Fishing 101 programme,” explains Jeff.
The idea was received with much enthusiasm, especially by 8-year old Daniel whose dream it is to become a professional fisherman one day. The programme started with one-hour sessions each week where Jeff taught 10 boys about the different types of fish, tackle and applications and at the request of the boys – how to fillet a fish.
Then came the big surprise when they were invited to go on their first fishing trip and put all they had learnt into practice. Each boy had his own fishing mentor for the day (just like a Dad), who gave their undivided attention to helping them put bait on their hooks and cast their lines for the first time as well as catch and release their very first live fish.
“The fishing trip was made possible through the phenomenal support from a wonderful team of volunteer fisherman, which included the exclusive use of a fishing boat. Just being in a boat and out at sea was a first-time experience for these boys as well, and the best was yet to come when they started catching all kinds of fish – 12 different species in total. The expression on their faces was priceless and gave the whole experience true meaning for everyone involved,” said Jeff.
Just as in a fishing competition, the day ended with certificates and prizes for the most fish caught – which went to aspiring fisherman, young Daniel and 10-year-old Craven proudly claimed the certificate for the biggest fish caught on the day. Thanks to the kind donation from Wet Sports in Cape Town, each boy received their very own fishing rod. Special thanks must also go to The Kingfisher in Durban for supplying the prizes and 2 consolation prizes for the boys who tried so hard not to be seasick.
With the ongoing support from the volunteer fisherman, Jeff plans to continue these fishing trips – which will give the boys an opportunity to put their new fishing rods to good practice.
Lee Jarrett, PR & Fundraising Manager, said, “This unique volunteer project has touched these boys lives in a special way. Each day they battle with tremendous personal challenges, but through their fishing experience we have seen improvements in their behaviour. This memorable experience has also given them a happy story to share with their friends and one day with their own children when they teach them to fish. Jeff’s Fishing 101 programme has helped us to re-enforce the message that they are indeed loved and cherished, and not forgotten”.
The Malvern Child and Youth Care Centre cares for 120 orphaned and vulnerable children between the ages of 2 and 18 years. Through its development programmes, the Home is committed to helping each child reach their full potential by providing a safe and loving environment, physical and medical care, access to education, therapeutic and spiritual support. To find out more, call (031) 464-0236 or visit the website at www.malvernchildyouthcarecentre.com and follow the Facebook page @MalvernChildAndYouthCareCentre