Strengthening VC Families ~ More than just fish were caught that day.

“Let’s take them deep sea fishing,” Rick Lane from the Ventura County Sportfishing Club said. From that one idea, a beautiful tradition began. Now each year, more than 30 youth living in care get the chance to experience something they will never forget: a day on the ocean, surrounded by nature, joy, and community.

This year’s trip set off from Ventura Harbor aboard the Californian. For many of these kids, it was their first time on the ocean. Some had never been on a boat, never seen the Channel Islands up close, or ever held a fishing rod. That all changed within an hour. Every fish pulled in brought a wide-eyed look, a smile, a cheer.

But the real catch wasn’t the fish. It was something deeper: making new friends, sharing snacks, watching the waves, seagulls and dolphins, nothing else mattered.

Thank you to Rick Lane, the Ventura County Sportfishing Club, and the dedicated crew of the #Californian for turning a simple idea into a life-changing experience.