As part of Operation Engage, Year IV, the DEA Educational Foundation partnered with the DEA Detroit Field Division to host two inspiring youth fishing programs in southwest Michigan, designed to give students positive, hands-on experiences in nature while reinforcing the importance of a drug-free lifestyle.

On May 7, 2025, twenty-one eighth grade students from Milwood Magnet School in Kalamazoo traveled to the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery in Mattawan for an immersive learning adventure. With the support of their teacher, James Warner, and guidance from Paul Frazier of the Fishin’ Weather Project, students learned the art of casting fishing lines, fed and observed fish in the giant fish pond, and explored a variety of native species, their life cycles, and habitats. They also gained insight into how the hatchery helps protect and conserve Michigan’s lakes, rivers, and streams.

DEAEF Special Projects Coordinator Colleen Whelan joined the group to speak about the Foundation’s mission to support healthy, drug-free lifestyles. DEA Detroit Field Division Group Supervisor Michael Tighe and Special Agent Brian McNeal also spoke to the students, offering powerful messages about the dangers of substance abuse while mentoring the students throughout the day.

On May 8, 2025, the youth-focused momentum continued in Athens, Michigan, where twenty students from Athens Elementary School traded classroom time for riverbank adventures during another memorable DEA Educational Foundation Youth Fishing Program. Hosted at Rotary Park in collaboration with the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi federal police, the event brought students outdoors for a day of fishing, games, and inspiration.

With rods in hand and smiles on their faces, students learned basic fishing techniques, explored nature, and played outdoor games, all while connecting with positive role models and reinforcing the importance of a drug-free lifestyle. Detroit Supervisory Special Agent Michael Tighe and DEA PIO Brian McNeal joined Colleen Whelan once again to help guide and encourage the students throughout the event.

After enjoying their boxed dinners together, students gathered to hear brief remarks from Whelan and McNeal about the dangers of substance abuse. In a meaningful moment, they then recited the Red Ribbon Pledge, underscoring their shared commitment to making healthy choices and living drug free.

The event was a shining example of community collaboration in action. The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi federal police played a key role in supporting the day’s activities, accompanied by officers from the Branch County Sheriff’s Office, helping to create a safe, welcoming space for students to connect with nature and one another.

Operation Engage is the DEA’s comprehensive approach to drug prevention, working closely with local partners to address the unique challenges each community faces. Programs like these youth fishing days offer more than just fun; they help build resilience, teach life skills, and open doors to healthier choices.

The sun was shining, the fish were biting, and laughter echoed along the riverbank as students finished the day fishing and enjoying the outdoors.

Each student went home with a fishing hat and their very own fishing rod, which will act as a reminder of the positive experiences that can come from spending time outdoors, trying something new, and saying “yes” to a drug-free life.

These events are part of an ongoing partnership between the DEA and the DEA Educational Foundation, designed to create enriching opportunities that inspire and empower young people to live drug-free lifestyles in communities across the country.