Creating Independence & Positive Self-Development
David and Heather Hicks operate Cast Outdoor Adventures Inc., a non-profit organization which facilitates leadership and skills development in youth and young adults that have varying levels of different abilities. Over the past five years, David, along with his family and staff have led and facilitated trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness for the Minnesota Wild Sled Hockey group. This involves guiding, teaching, and equipping up to 32 paraplegic athletes to travel 14 miles by canoe (including a 3/4 mile portage) without able-bodied assistance.
In Feb. 2023 David was a guest speaker at the United For Veterans Family Retreat held in Ely, MN.
A project just getting underway, a documentary film:
Ralph DeQuebec served in the United States Marine Corps as an aviation ordnance technician and an explosive ordnance disposal technician.
While deployed during the Iraq War in 2012, he tragically lost both of his legs above the knee in a bomb explosion in Afghanistan.
In that moment of devastating loss, Ralph was faced with a life-altering choice: succumb to the weight of his disability or rise above it and conquer the world.
From a kid growing up in East Los Angeles, surrounded by gang violence and poverty, to becoming a two-time sled hockey gold medalist, surfer, coach, motivational speaker, and now, an adventurer taking on dogsledding in Northern Minnesota.
This film will not only highlight Ralph's remarkable achievements but also his new adventure in the world of dogsledding.
Gaining the trust of these powerful animals, learning how to lead them through the harshest of environments, and ultimately pushing himself to new limits is just another testament to Ralph's unwavering determination. His story is about continually conquering new challenges, both internal and external, with a fierce resolve.
We believe Ralph’s story deserves to be shared with the world on the big screen. However, to make this vision a reality, we need your help.
Our goal is to raise $40,000 to fund the production of this film, covering everything from equipment and crew to travel and post-production. Your support will play a pivotal role in bringing Ralph’s incredible story to life and ensuring that his message of perseverance and triumph is shared with audiences everywhere.
How You Can Help:
Donate: Your contribution, no matter the size, will help us reach our goal. Every dollar brings us closer to making this inspiring film a reality.
Share: Help us spread the word about this project by sharing our campaign with your friends, family, and networks.
Get Involved: If you’d like to offer support in other ways, such as connecting us with potential collaborators or sponsors, we’d love to hear from you!
Ralph’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and with your help, we can ensure that his story continues to inspire and empower others around the world.Together, we can create a documentary that celebrates resilience, bravery, and the power of the human spirit.
“By embracing barrier-free adventure, we can enrich the lives of individuals with different abilities, fostering a world where the wonders of nature are within everyone’s reach. ”
Our Mission…
Since 2021, Cast Outdoor Adventures, Inc. has provided inclusive adventures for individuals and veterans with intellectual and physical disabilities. Participants and their families have the opportunity to experience leadership training, keynote speakers, and the opportunity to participate in a canoeing trip of a lifetime in the BWCA. All needs are met by innovative adaptations and skilled guides who have a passion for working with individuals with special needs. By embracing barrier-free adventure, we can enrich the lives of individuals with different abilities, fostering a world where the wonders of nature are within everyone’s reach. Ultimately, we believe the skills learned on the trip translate back into everyday life, making Cast Outdoor Adventure experiences an effective catalyst on the path to greater independence.
Conveniently located in Ely, MN near the world-renowned entry point into the BWCA. The BWCA contains roughly one million acres of untouched wilderness, 1175 lakes, 1200 miles of canoe routes, 12 hiking trails, and over 2000 designated campsites. Cast Outdoor Adventures, Inc. assists visitors on their BWCA trips by providing outdoor education, necessary adaptations, support, and specifically designed lightweight food, supplies, and equipment.
Cast Outdoor Adventures, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization.
All gifts are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
Our Projects…
SUMMER PROGRAMS:
Cast Outdoor Adventures, Inc. is raising $37,600 to enhance our adaptive canoe program by December 30, 2024. Funds will be used for canoes, Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs), canoe paddles, and trailer. Corporations and individuals willing to support this endeavor through financial or in-kind donations are needed.
WINTER PROGRAMS:
We envision, with the addition of 3-4 customized sleds, we will be able to expand the offerings of facilitating experiences for individuals with varying levels of abilities. These sleds will be able to accommodate a rider, up to 300+ lbs. plus a guide for initial instruction but allow the participant to transition to driving the sled dog team independently of the guide. The sleds will be capable of wilderness winter travel, off trail adventures, and provide stability and security in inclement conditions.
Cost of building these custom designed sleds:
Runners $500
Stantions $200
Brakes $200
Base $100
Plastic $50
Brush Bows $200
Seat & Brackets $1000
Labor $1000
Custom Sled
bag liner $450
$3700 ea.
