Grant Request Wabasso School of Fish Inc.
Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form
Organization Name: Wabasso School of Fish Inc.
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 330 Legend Trail
City: VERO BEACH
State:
Postal Code:
Main Phone: 9546489827
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.wabassoschooloffish.org
Employer ID Number: 33-3825707
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3
Proposal Information
Today’s Date: 3/22/2026
Requested Amount: $5,000
Project Title: Youth Fishing & Conservation Education Program
Project Description:
Wabasso School of Fish, Inc. delivers hands-on fishing education programs that teach youth essential life skills including water safety, environmental stewardship, and personal responsibility. Serving children in the Indian River Lagoon region, our program combines classroom instruction with guided shoreline fishing experiences, allowing participants to immediately apply what they learn in a safe, structured environment.
Our program has demonstrated strong, measurable impact. Over the past year, we served approximately 100 youth participants, and 100% of those children received free fishing gear to take home. Each participant is equipped with a rod and reel combo, a fully stocked tackle box, a fish identification chart, and a reusable water bottle. By providing these resources, we ensure the experience extends beyond a single event, empowering youth to continue fishing independently while reinforcing the skills and values learned through the program.
Building on this success, we aim to expand our reach and work toward serving up to 200 youth participants this year. This project will directly support that growth by providing at least 25 additional underserved youth with complete fishing kits and hands-on instruction in casting, knot tying, species identification, conservation practices, and local fishing regulations.
Funding will support fishing equipment, program materials, bait, permits, and safety resources necessary to operate safe and effective sessions. The program also emphasizes conservation of the Indian River Lagoon, encouraging participants to become responsible stewards of their environment.
By removing financial barriers and expanding access, this project promotes long-term engagement in positive outdoor activities, strengthens family connections, and creates measurable, lasting community impact.
Total Project Budget: $15,000
Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Individual donations, local business sponsorships, fundraising events, and in-kind contributions of fishing equipment and supplies.
Project Duration: 12 months (ongoing program with recurring seasonal events)
Geographical Area Served: Indian River County and surrounding areas
Age Group To Be Served: 6-17
Contact Information
Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: David
Contact Last Name: Brachfeld
Contact Title: Founder & CEO
Contact Phone: 7723218328
Contact Email: david@wabassoschooloffish.org