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) with minimal assistance.
In Feb. 2023 David was a guest speaker at the United For Veterans Family Retreat held in Ely, MN.
“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 accomodate a rider, up to 300+ lbs. plus a guide for initial instruction but allow the participant to transistion 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 incliment conditions.
Cost of building these custom designed sleds:
Runners $500
Stantions $200
Brakes $200
Base $100
Plastic $50
Brush Bows $200
Seat Bracket $300
Labor $1000
Custom Sled
bag liner $450
$3000 ea.
