This document serves to define the initiative's structure, operations, and legal compliance.

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1. Overview of the "Cast to Connect" Initiative

 

Project Name: Cast to Connect: Fishing for Young Adults and Kids

 

Project Description:

"Cast to Connect" is an outreach and engagement project initiated and funded by Wind-Ridge.com with the goal of introducing young people to the joys of fishing while instilling values of conservation and environmental stewardship. This project provides fishing equipment, educational resources, and hands-on experiences to schools and youth organizations.

 

2. Nature of the Project

 

"Cast to Connect" is a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative operated under the legal framework of Wind-Ridge.com. It is not a charitable organization or nonprofit entity. Instead, it is a project fully funded and managed by Wind-Ridge.com to fulfill its commitment to community engagement and environmental education.

 

3. Funding and Allocation

 

Product Sales:

A select line of merchandise, including apparel and fishing gear, has been designated to support the "Cast to Connect" project. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of these items will be directed towards funding the project. For clarity: Proceeds are defined as the total sales price of the merchandise, minus applicable taxes, shipping costs, and cost of goods sold (COGS).

COGS includes, but is not limited to: the base garment or item cost, printing or embroidery materials (such as ink and thread), labels, packaging, and any direct labor or production-related expenses incurred in creating the final product.

This structure ensures that every dollar remaining after covering essential production costs is directly reinvested into Cast to Connect’s mission of equipping youth with access to the outdoors through fishing education and experiences.

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Contributions:

Contributions Toward Cast to Connect

WindRidge accepts direct financial contributions in support of the Cast to Connect initiative. These contributions are entirely voluntary and help us pursue our mission of connecting young people with the outdoors through fishing.

Please note: Cast to Connect is a WindRidge-operated initiative and not a registered nonprofit or charity. WindRidge is a for-profit business, and contributions are not tax-deductible.

100% of funds contributed are allocated toward the Cast to Connect mission, including gear donations, event coordination, youth outreach, and other direct program expenses. Contributions and product proceeds may also be used to cover reasonable compensation for time, services, and resources required to operate the initiative.

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Financial Management:

All proceeds from the designated product line will be tracked separately within Wind-Ridge.com's accounting system. A dedicated sub-account will be maintained to ensure transparency and proper allocation of funds exclusively for the "Cast to Connect" project.

 

4. Operations and Partnerships

Equipment and Resources:

Providing fishing equipment packages (e.g., rods, tackle boxes) to participating schools and organizations.

Developing educational materials on fishing techniques, aquatic ecosystems, and conservation practices.

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Workshops and Mentorship:

Organizing fishing workshops, casting classes, and outdoor excursions led by experienced anglers and environmental educators.

Offering mentorship programs where experienced anglers volunteer to teach and guide young participants.

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5. Compliance and Reporting

Transparency:

Regular financial reports will be prepared and published quarterly, detailing the total proceeds collected, expenses incurred, and net funds allocated to the project.

Reports will be available on Wind-Ridge.com's website to ensure transparency and accountability to supporters and customers.

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Legal Compliance:

The initiative will comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations regarding corporate social responsibility and youth engagement activities.

Any partnerships or collaborations with schools and youth organizations will be formalized through written agreements to clarify roles, responsibilities, and expectations.

6. Public Communication and Disclaimers

 

Website and Marketing:

 

Clear language will be used on Wind-Ridge.com's website and marketing materials to communicate that "Cast to Connect" is a project funded by the company and not a charity.

Example phrasing: “Support our ‘Cast to Connect’ initiative by purchasing select merchandise. 100% of the proceeds will be used to fund this project, providing fishing equipment and educational resources to young people.”

Disclaimers:

“All proceeds from the sale of items in our ‘Cast to Connect’ product line will be directed to support the ‘Cast to Connect’ project. Proceeds are defined as the total sales price minus any applicable taxes and shipping costs. Purchases are not tax-deductible.”

 

7. Long-Term Sustainability

 

Future Funding:

 

Explore additional funding opportunities such as corporate sponsorships, grants, and community support to supplement and sustain the project.

Volunteer and Mentor Network:

 

Build a network of volunteers and mentors passionate about youth engagement and outdoor education to ensure the initiative’s sustainability and expansion.

Conclusion:

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The "Cast to Connect" initiative is a strategic project of Wind-Ridge.com, embodying the company's commitment to community engagement and environmental education. It operates within the legal framework of a for-profit entity and is distinct from charitable organizations, with a clear focus on transparency, accountability, and impact.