Kids and parents enjoying themselves at Cory's Lil' Anglers most recent event.

When Mike Chrismas’s best friend Cory Boudreau passed away last year, he knew he had to find a way to honour his friend’s memory.

That’s when he and some friends came up with the idea for Cory’s Lil’ Anglers, a non-profit that gives underprivileged kids the chance to fish for free. They host monthly events where kids can get outfitted with all the necessary gear, from rods to lures, to tackle. They also provide guidance for kids who have never fished before.

Chrismas says it’s their way to continue Cory’s legacy and combines his passion for fishing with his dedication to brightening up kids’ days as a crossing guard.

“Just being friendly and hopeful that that one smile during the day will be enough to set them off for having a wonderful day,” said Chrismas of Cory’s attitude.

Cory’s Lil’ Anglers is relatively new, but Chrismas says they’ve already made important strides to growing the organization. They became an official nonprofit organization for the Province of Nova Scotia back in March and have secured a handful of sponsorships to help fund their events.

“Every day is getting bigger and bigger and making sure everything is done efficiently,” said Chrismas.

Part of that includes making sure they secure the right resources to provide every kid who comes to the event the supports they need, regardless of their backgrounds.

“I had to lean on some local volunteers that were very versed [in dealing with children], some teachers, some youth workers, and adoption group volunteers,” said Chrismas.

It’s all in an effort to make sure every kid is able to come out and enjoy some free fishing and experience opportunities that they may have never been able to.

Chrismas knows himself what it’s like to not have the same privileges as other kids. He told us that he was adopted and spent some time in group home. That’s actually where he learned to fish when he was 16 years old.

“If I can give a kid that half that age that opportunity, absolutely I want to do that,” said Chrismas.

Cory’s Lil’ Anglers next event is on July 30^th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Alderney Landing.

As always, it’s free for anyone who wants to join.