The idea;

                In 2008, The Granite City Police Union PBPA Unit 15, City Mayor Ed Hagnauer, and Police Chief Rich Miller approved and endorsed the founding of “Shielded Waters Youth Mentoring Fishing Program”. This program was designed with the intention of providing at-risk kids within the Granite City area an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, and instill self confidence through the art of fishing. The basic concept was brought about by long time Steel City Member and good friend, Skip Johnson who formed “Still Waters.” The foundation of Still Waters was built upon the strength of Bethesda Temple Church in Normandy, Missouri, where  inner city youths were provided a chance to grow, meet new people, and gain self confidence and self respect through a fishing camp known as “Camp Jam.” With guidance from Skip, and coupled with instructional guidelines established by the Illinois Department of Natural Resource’s program commonly referred to as  “Get Hooked on Fishing, Not Drugs,” the Shielded Waters program was established.

Methods:

As police officers in Granite City, the day in and day out handling of youths at risk has continued to rise. Recruitment began in the winter of 2009 by utilizing the Coordinated Youth Services as well as police contacts by patrol officers and detectives with youths in homes where father figures were not present. The list quickly grew and plans were made to seek donations from area businesses to support the program. The result was an overwhelming out pouring of donations and contributions from numerous businesses such as the Granite City Wal-Mart and Bluff City Tackle in Alton, Illinois.

Success:

The 2009 Shielded Waters Pilot Program was solidified and completed by being accepted and endorsement of the Steel City Bassmasters organization led by President Larry Heagy. The support of this twenty-one year organization has led to the Shielded Waters program being recognized and acknowledged in national magazines, news articles, and supported by professional Elite B.A.S.S. Anglers such as Brian Snowden, Woo Davies, and Kevin Van Dam. The combined quality of membership and leadership of the Steel City BassMasters organization has been the determining factor regarding the success of this first year program.

It is our hopes to continue to promote the art of fishing amongst our youths by utilizing our ideas, opportunities, and resources in everyway possible.

Again, thank you!