One Hope United’s Lake Villa campus hosted its second annual ice fishing derby on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014. The event brings together world famous fishermen and boys in the CARE/Day School program for a day of fun and fishing on the campus lake!

This year, the derby was sponsored by the Fox River Valley Muskie Association and Cabella’s donated huts, heaters, hand warmers and bait for the volunteers and 18 boys in treatment.

Tony Boshold, a world champion ice fisherman attend and instructed the boys in the fundamentals of ice fishing. U.S. Champion Ice Fisherman Mike McNett also volunteered. One Hope United Board Member Cindy Lusignan and volunteer Nancy Miller donated lunch for all the participants. One Hope United Board Member Howard Schnitzer and his wife Chris donated coffee and donuts for the fisherman before they made their way out on the ice. Bonnie Lederman and Joyce Heneberry also volunteered their time at this event, in addition to many others.

Thanks to all who helped make this a memorable day for the boys receiving treatment. Many shared their thoughts about the experience:

Josh, a boy in the residential program, caught three fish. He said, “The best part was catching the most fish. I learned how to ice fish. There was no bad thing about the fishing derby.  It was fun.”

Shamar said, “The best part was catching the fish in a small hole. I learned how to ride a four-wheeler.” 

Kevin said the best part was “when we went on the snowmobile. I learned how to be patient.” 

Reggie said, “Hanging out with everyone on the water was fun. I learned how to catch fish on the ice. I loved it.”

Mason was glad that his confusion about which fisherman there was named Cabela was cleared up because he was so glad the company had donated so much.  He said, “I enjoyed riding a snowmobile for the first time.