The Mississippi Coast is renowned for its fishing, and for many, it’s a way of life. For Dana Sanders, it’s a passion that goes beyond just a hobby or a job. It’s a chance to make a difference in the lives of others, particularly those with disabilities. What’s Next Fishing Charters, Sanders’ company, is more than just a fishing charter business. It’s a platform for him to give back to the community and provide opportunities for those who may not have had the chance to experience the joy of fishing before. The idea for the disabled fishing charter was born out of Sanders’ own experiences as a father to Jason, his 20-year-old son who has cerebral palsy. While many boats may not be easily accessible to those with disabilities, the Sanders family’s boat, Jason’s Joy, is different. It was donated by a kind-hearted individual and has been modified to accommodate Jason’s wheelchair.
“We went and got this boat, brought it here to Gautier, took it to a friend of mine — Joey Furlan at Furlan’s Marine — and Joey helped me configure this boat to fit Jason’s needs,”
Sanders explained. The boat, now equipped with a manual wheelchair and a battery-operated reel, is ready to take on its first disabled charter. Starting this October, Sanders will be offering a special charter service for individuals of all abilities.
- Key Features:
- Manual wheelchair for easy accessibility
- Battery-operated reel for convenient fishing
- Modified boat to accommodate different abilities
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with many people reaching out to offer their support and donations. Sanders has received several offers to cover the costs of the charter, ensuring that no one is turned away due to financial constraints. “I’ve got several people lined up,” Sanders said. “They say, ‘I can’t be a part, but I want to pay somebody’s way.’ So we have that opportunity. If there’s someone out there that says, ‘Well I’d love to do it, but I don’t have 500 dollars,’ we have that covered.”
The disabled fishing charter is not just a new service, but a way for Sanders to continue serving his purpose on the Coast. He’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those who may not have had the chance to experience the joy of fishing before. The opportunity to make an impact is endless, and Sanders is excited to be a part of it.
- Opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience fishing
- Community support and donations
- Modified boat to accommodate different abilities
Through the disabled fishing charter, Sanders aims to provide a unique experience for individuals of all abilities. He’s looking to create a sense of community and inclusivity, where everyone can come together and enjoy the beauty of the Mississippi Coast.
