WILCOX — Seventyfive kids experienced a free day of fishing with their families at the 2025 Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) IUE-CWA Local 502 Take Kids Fishing Day on May 3 at Twin Lakes.

Youths in attendance received a free rod and reel, a fishing net and tackle, and learned fishing skills from 15 volunteers with the Industrial Division of the Communication Workers of America (IUE-CWA) Local 88502.

Kelvin Torres, president of IUE-CWA Local 88502 and lead volunteer, enjoyed seeing the reactions of youths and their families throughout the day.

“The laughter and smiles you see in the children reflect on their parents,” he said. “As a parent, my own feelings and emotions mirror those of my kids. We had 99 fish come up, all different sizes, it was just like Christmas. Seeing the kids happy is what makes it all worth it. That’s why we do it.”

When Torres became president of IUE-CWA Local 88502 in 2021, one of his top goals was to engage more kids in the community. He discovered the USA while attending conventions and meetings and was motivated to start a youth fishing event.

“My kids love fishing and there are a lot of families in our area who primarily hunt and fish all year long,” he said. “Many kids and families don’t have the time nor opportunity to take their kids fishing, so we collectively as a local thought it would be good to host a fishing event.”

Located in the Allegheny National Forest, Twin Lakes is a popular local spot for fishing and swimming. Its accessibility and ample parking make it an ideal location for Take Kids Fishing Day. The area was once home to factory buildings, stores and company row houses, but it has been transformed into campsites, picnic areas, pavilions and bathhouses since the U.S. Forest Service acquired it in the 1920s.

Take Kids Fishing Day was part of a series of community-based events organized through the USA’s Work Boots on the Ground conservation program, which brings together union members for conservation projects that improve and enhance public access to the outdoors, conserve wildlife habitats, restore America’s parks and mentor youth in the outdoors.

Torres encourages others to get involved with community events.

“Anyone, not just union members, with the time and ability should volunteer at this fishing event or any community event in our area,” Torres said. “It builds a unique sense of camaraderie, a different kind of motivation, and helps us recognize the similarities we share. I have an 11-, 9-, and 5-year-old, and no matter where I take them, whether it’s the beach, the park, or this fishing event—they’re always playing and connecting with other kids. That interaction is so important.”

USA Conservation Manager Cody Campbell explained how this event ties in with the USA’s mission.

“The USA’s mission is to unite the union community through conservation to preserve North America’s outdoor heritage,” he said. “Events like this show how union members come together to make a difference in their communities. Fishing is a lifelong sport and our Take Kids Fishing Day events across the country help families spend quality time outdoors and create lasting memories with each other.”

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One of 75 participants looks at a fish inside of a fishing net at the 2025 IUE-CWA Local 502 Take Kids Fishing Day.

Photo submitted