Nearly 1,500 children and adults with special needs spent a day in the sunshine recently, casting lines and catching fish during the 34th annual Kids Fishing Day at Salem Pond. The event wouldn’t be possible without the community effort behind it, especially the team from Macey’s.
This year’s event drew its largest crowd yet, with kids from school districts across Utah spending the day outdoors. While the trout and fishing poles got plenty of attention, one of the day’s biggest highlights came at lunchtime with 1,600 boxed meals prepared by Macey’s.
Led by Store Director Bill Summers and Assistant Store Director Jessica Atkinson, the Macey’s team played a critical role in the festivities. The deli crew began sandwich production early in the morning as team members made turkey and ham sandwiches before a team of volunteers assembled full meals including chips, cookies, bottled water and granola bars.
“This event is one of those reminders of why we do what we do,” said Steve Skinner, district manager for Associated Retail Operations (ARO). “Our team doesn’t just show up, they show heart. They know this day means the world to these kids and that’s why they pour so much care into the event.”
The event’s meals were made possible through generous donations from vendors including Dietz and Watson, Little Debbie, Pepsi and Don Julio. But the backbone of the effort was Macey’s Spanish Fork, which covered over $1,600 in supply costs and spearheaded the massive food preparation effort.
Sandwich makers included Sara Nichols (Spanish Fork), Catherine Ratliff (Provo Fresh Market), Ryan Gentry (American Fork), and Shea Gentry (Provo). Lunch was assembled by a dedicated group of team members: Jennie Jackson, Cameron Pulley, Melanie Mason, Kaitlyn Tuckett (all from Spanish Fork), Loriann Tanner (ARO), and Rachel Collins (Park City).
Kids Fishing Day has grown exponentially since it began in the 1990s with just 16 participants. The event, founded by brothers Mike and Kevin Pritchett, has now become a cherished annual tradition in the community, bringing outdoor adventure and a sense of accomplishment to hundreds of children with disabilities.
Steve emphasized how deeply Macey’s values its role in the event’s success. “It’s easy to talk about community service, but this is where we live it. The Macey’s team doesn’t just support this event, they own it. It’s part of who we are.”
Macey’s has been the official lunch sponsor of the event for about the past five years, continuing a tradition started by Fresh Market. With its support, Kids Fishing Day has become more than just a field trip. It’s a joyful, empowering day many participants look forward to all year long.