A ‘Perch’ for Kabeyun's Fishermen

Campers, staff, and visitors will notice something new the next time they arrive at Kabeyun: The Perch.

Nestled in a grove of trees between Woodchucks dock and Chipmunk’s Rock, The Perch is a new building that will house camp’s fishing program. Its construction was initiated by the McMorris family, as part of their mission to turn darkness into light after Andrew McMorris was killed by a drunk driver at age 12, while hiking with his Boy Scout Troop.

“We started the Andrew McMorris Foundation and one of the things we do is help programs that give back to kids,” explains Andrew’s father, John. “Andrew loved fishing so much, so a fishing shack is tied into what he loved most about Kabeyun.”

In addition to providing storage for fishing equipment, The Perch is designed to create new learning opportunities and a sense of community. Sliding barn doors and a covered porch give young fishermen a place to gather in all kinds of weather, while a long workbench invites new possibilities.

“I’ve always wanted a place to do fly tying,” says Bill Cox, Kabeyun’s Facilities Manager and one of two fishing counselors. “And there should be a place to put a reel down on a bench and then take it apart, so the guys can learn what all those parts are. This will give us the chance to do those kinds of educational activities.”

That’s exactly the type of experience the McMorrises have in mind to honor their son.

“We want to enhance their experience. These campers are now going to have a place that’s their home as fishermen. That’s exciting for us, to have those kids benefit for years, hopefully for decades, to come,” John says.

The McMorris’ connection to Kabeyun dates back to the 1940’s, when John’s father Jim was a camper and later a counselor. John and his brothers Jamie and Chris were all campers in the 1980’s, and with their parents they were among the original Family Campers in the early 1970’s. John and his wife Alisa, their daughter Arianna, and Andrew continued the tradition: Andrew came to Family Camp every summer except one, when Hurricane Irene hit New Hampshire in 2011.

The Andrew McMorris Foundation and Kabeyun’s Porter Foundation welcome contributions to cover The Perch’s total construction cost of approximately $20,000. More than $8,000 has been raised so far. You are invited to join the effort by making a donation at kabeyun.org/giving.

Visit andrewmcmorrisfoundation.org to learn more about Andrew’s inspiring life and the work the Andrew McMorris Foundation is doing in his memory.