What We Do
Why Fly Fishing
The mediative rhythms of casting, mixed with the calming effects of time in water, and having a positive mentor available are the ideal combination for a child in foster care to:
Find brain reset and mental health
Improve self-esteem and self-confidence
Create positive memories (you can’t help but smile when you catch a fish on your own)
Find a positive hobby and coping mechanism for managing life’s stress
Find an anchor in the outdoors and learn about conservation
What’s a Project
A project consists of 5 outings where the children learn about fly fishing, taking care of the environment, and have a blast catching fish with our mentor team! We encourage and invite foster parents, parents, group home staff, and caseworkers to be present at these outings to ensure the child feels comfortable.
Who Are the Mentors?
Our mentors are volunteers from your community that believe in the healing power and the fun of fly fishing and care greatly about leading others to this sport. Mentors go through an application process, reference check, background check, interview, and training specific to TMP. We have trauma informed care videos for our mentors and a handbook that teaches on these topics:
About Children in Foster Care
Trauma Informed Care and Inclusivity
Communication and Behavior Response Guidelines
Handling Escalation and Disruptive Behaviors
Conflict Resolution and Mandated Reporting
Tips for Being a Great Mentor
Tips for Being a Great Fly Fishing Guide
The Mayfly Project Program Rules
Our Impact
Survey Results from Caregivers and Mentees:
100%
of kids who responded to the survey had fun with the Mayfly project
85%
of kids were able to leave behind at least some of their problems while out fishing
100%
of kids want to continue fishing after the Mayfly project
93%
of kids want to spend more time in nature after the Mayfly Project
97%
of caregivers believe their child had fun
100%
of caregivers believe their child learned a lot about fly fishing
100%
of caregivers believe their child had an improved mood after fly fishing
96%
of caregivers believe their child was able to take a break from their struggles
100%
of caregivers believe the Mayfly project created a safe project for their child