My name is Dustin Thompson and I live in McLaughlin, S.D. on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. I am a NAFC Life Member. Here on Standing Rock we face a huge number of misfortunes that is a result of poverty. Our comunities suffer from high suicide rates; high unemployment rates; drug and alcohol abuse from both minors and adults. Here in the Bear Soldier Comunity of McLaughlin, S.D. we have a community based gym and very little resources. I am a youth coordinator fighting to come up with activities that will benifit our children. Activities that will give our children excieting times without having to deal with the pressures of alcohol or drugs.

      I am trying to start a youth fishing club. I have secured a van and gas to take the children to the river. I have secured a building to hold classes for interested youth who want to develope their interesting in the great sport of fishing. As I have the ability to teach the children different aspects of fishing in a classroom setting, we have no gear to hit the waters.

      Here is what I am asking, I am looking for people who can help make this youth project a success. We need help in securing donations of fishing equipment for shore fishing. Equipment such as Rods & Reels, Tackle, Fishing Lines, Etc. As of now we have very limited supply. It is with hope that the donations of special people such as the NAFC Members will be able to keep the dream alive.

      It is not often that I have a chance to login to the club website. With that said if their is anyone out their who can help with this project please contact me. I can be reached at tomcatsmail@yahoo.com or by writing me at P.O. Box 547,  MCLAUGHLIN, S.D.,  57642.

      It is with my sincerest appreciation that I hear from you.