Benefit Dinner and Auction Will Help Maine’s Youth Learn to Love the Outdoors

You're invited to a very special dinner and auction in Old Town this weekend that will help get kids eyes off their screens, and onto the beauty of our state.

Maine Organization Helps Young People Appreciate How Fun Maine Can Be

I just learned of the Maine Youth Fish and Game Association a few years ago, and was immediately impressed with their mission.

In this age of computers and cellphones, it's so challenging to hold the attention of the younger generation. They'd rather watch someone doing outdoor adventures than actually experiencing it themselves.

But Maine has so much outdoor fun to offer, and the folks at MYFGA wanted the state's youth to learn how to enjoy it.

Maine Youth Fish & Game Summer Camps Pull Kids' Attention Out of Their Phones

So they offer free fishing to kids under 16 at Pickerel Pond in Milford in an area of the pond that's kept stocked with fish. The best way to get kids hooked on fishing is to guarantee they'll catch a fish on their first outing.

In addition, MYFGA has an awesome summer camp, where kids are not allowed to use their phones. Instead, they fish, hike, paddle, and learn to fully appreciate the joys of the Maine outdoors.

Matt Redding of the Maine Youth Fish & Game Association says it's tough for the teens, at first. But by the time they're done,they can't wait to come back.

As a matter of fact, this summer's camp counselors are all former campers!

Maine Youth Fish & Game Dinner and Auction Helps Fund Its Programs

On Saturday, the organization's largest fundraising dinner and auction will be held at the Sockalexis Arena, on Indian Island, in Old Town.

They have some lots of cool items up for bid, including:

• A Monhegan Island getaway, which includes two nights stay, a half-day shark fishing, and $100 at Mohegan Island Brewery.
• A signed UMaine hockey jersey and a goalie stick.
• A 5 foot three point hitch grader blade.
• 4 mounts from South Africa, including a blue wildebeest and an Impala.
• Heating oil, firewood, and a heat pump with installation.
• Several guided hunts and fishing trips for both youth or adults.
• Several firearms, including airsoft, pistols, shotguns, and rifles.

There will be both silent and live auctions. Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card.

Doors open at 4, dinner starts at 5, and the live auction begins at 6.

Tickets will be available at the door: $8 for adults, $5 for seniors (60+), and $30 per family (up to five people).