For nearly 30 years, the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Summer Fishing Program has introduced thousands of young people to the outdoors through hands-on learning, mentorship, and unforgettable experiences. What began as a partnership with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Columbus Police, and D.A.R.E. has grown into a beloved summer tradition serving youth at ten Columbus Recreation and Parks community centers. Each year, hundreds of young people participate, creating lifelong memories while discovering the benefits of nature and recreation.
This summer, that tradition was made even stronger thanks to the generosity of community partners who invested not only financially, but with their time.
The Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation is proud to recognize Loeb Electric as the presenting sponsor of the Summer Fishing Program, along with the generous support of Peter Walsh and John Igel, whose contributions helped ensure youth had access to equipment, supplies, and outdoor experiences throughout the summer.
Every Friday from June 12 through July 31, participating CRPD community centers hosted Fishing Fridays, giving youth the opportunity to learn basic fishing skills, spend time outdoors, and build confidence alongside caring mentors. Staff from Loeb Electric, joined by our donors, rolled up their sleeves and volunteered at Adams Community Center, helping aspiring fishermen bait hooks, celebrate catches, and experience the joy of spending time outside.
For Skip Loeb, President of Loeb Electric, supporting the program was about creating opportunities that extend far beyond fishing.
“The Fishing Program stood out because it gives kids and families a chance to get outside, unplug, and spend quality time together. For many participants, it may be their first time fishing, and we were excited to help make those experiences possible.”
The program aligns closely with Loeb Electric’s longstanding commitment to people and community.
“Supporting youth and community programs is a natural fit with our values of people, trust, commitment, and innovation. We believe in putting people first, building trust by being an active community partner, and staying committed to creating opportunities that make a lasting difference.”
Those opportunities reach far beyond the shoreline. While youth are learning how to cast a line, they’re also developing patience, perseverance, problem-solving skills, and resilience, lessons that last long after the fishing poles are put away.
As Skip explained:
“Whether it’s learning a new skill, solving a problem, or trying again after a missed catch, experiences like these help build confidence, encourage ingenuity, and teach resilience.”
In addition to offering weekly Fishing Friday’s, participants were able to enjoy special outdoor experiences, including trips to Hargus Lake and the annual Lake Erie charter boat excursion, which, for many, was their first experience fishing on open water.
Skip believes those experiences are especially important today.
“Programs like this encourage kids to unplug, slow down, enjoy nature, and try something new, which supports both their physical and mental well-being.”
Perhaps the greatest lesson from this partnership is that meaningful community impact doesn’t require an enormous investment, it simply requires people who are willing to get involved.
“You don’t have to do everything to make a difference, you just have to do something. Whether it’s sponsoring a program, donating resources, or encouraging employees to volunteer, every bit of support can help create meaningful opportunities that wouldn’t exist otherwise.”
As the Foundation continues expanding opportunities for Columbus youth, partnerships like these demonstrate what’s possible when businesses, individual donors, and volunteers come together around a shared purpose.
Thank you to Skip Loeb, Loeb Electric, Peter Walsh, John Igel, and everyone who volunteered their time this summer. Together, you’re helping the next generation discover confidence, connection, and a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.