Yelas Named Executive Director for C.A.S.T.

Jay Yelas has been named executive director of the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation (C.A.S.T.). After an orientation period, Yelas will replace retiring Executive Director and Founder Jim Owens, who has served in the position for 24 years.

Yelas, of Corvalis, Ore., has built an impressive resume as a professional bass fisherman. His most notable accomplishments include winning the 2002 Bassmaster Classic, the 2003 B.A.S.S Angler of the Year and FLW Angler of the Year titles in 2002 and 2007 FLW. Additionally, Yelas won a 2003 ESPN ESPY award in the Best Outdoor Athlete category.

“I am thrilled to be the new Executive Director of C.A.S.T.,” says Yelas. “I’ve been a member of the board of directors for nearly a decade and I’m very familiar with what this unique organization does to help brighten the lives of special children all over the US. I look forward to continuing this great work and getting to know the hundreds of volunteers that make C.A.S.T. such a great organization.”

“What a great fit for C.A.S.T,” notes Jim Owens. “I feel very comfortable turning the reins over to Jay. He knows our mission, is a very caring person and is dedicated to what C.A.S.T. does. Jay will help to move the foundation forward to even higher levels.”

In addition to dozens of fishing events for children yearly under the C.A.S.T. for Kids and Fishing Kids programs, C.A.S.T also runs several events for active duty and retired service men and women under the Take a Warrior Fishing program introduced in 2011.  Founded in 1991, C.A.S.T. is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. For more information, go to its website: www.castforkids.org