The event is presented by platinum sponsors
Columbia Sportswear, Margaritaville and U.S.
Health Advisors. Proceeds support local
education by partnering with Charlotte County
Schools to create a two-week S.T.E.M. (Science,
Technology, Engineering, Math) camp each year,
where about 80 percent of the money needed
to run the camp comes from Boca Grand
Charities.
“The tournament funds help make our
summer camp a success,” said Mia Conlon,
science teacher at Lemon Bay High School. “It’s a
two week event that allows more than 30
students the opportunity to conduct research in
the field and the chance to see science in action.”
Another organization benefiting from the event
is Easter Seals Project Rainbow, which creates
temporary relief for families and caregivers by
providing a safe environment where kids have
time to be kids and parents have time to be
independent adults. Trained respite care workers
provide home-based assistance to families of
children who are chronically ill, medically fragile
or developmentally disabled. Some of the Project
Rainbow kids will be coming to the island on
June 2 to participate in some of the games and
activities at Camp Margaritaville.
“We plan to pair them up with some of the
kids who will be fishing in the tournament to play
team games and socialize, providing them the
opportunity to get to know the kids this event
OUR MISSION:
To provide a fun
and competitive event
for youth that encourages
goodwill, sportsmanship,
conservation and education
while recognizing the
Boca Grande community
and its tarpon fishing
history and
traditions.
will be helping,” Melvin said.
Tom Waters, CEO of Easter Seals, said he couldn’t
think of a better partnership that teaches children
how to embrace their differences and help each
other.
“I’m very grateful that the kids of the Rainbow
Program and the kids who participate in the
tournament will get the chance to both give and
receive by learning more about each other,” Waters
said. “They will gain a better understanding about
different life situations, and hopefully appreciate the
feeling of what it’s like to help others.”