Partnership in Youth Mentoring
By: Quinn Erdmann Wisconsin Coordinator
United for a Cause: Three Groups Cooperating to Provide a Youth Hunting Opportunity
In today’s world, the importance of outdoor experiences and connecting with nature cannot be overstated, especially for younger generations. One such opportunity recently took place when three distinct groups — Pass it On-Outdoor Mentors, Kids and Mentors Outdoors (KAMO), and the Southwestern Izaak Walton League — united to create an unforgettable hunting experience for a group of enthusiastic young hunters.
This collaboration not only provided these youth with a chance to experience the excitement and responsibility of hunting but also highlighted the power of cooperation among diverse organizations to ensure that these experiences are accessible, educational, and safe.
Bringing Together Diverse Groups for a Common Purpose
Each of the three groups involved in this youth hunting event brought something unique to the table. The Southwest Izaak Walton League is a non-profit focused on conservation and outdoor recreation. Chartered in 1978, they offer facilities for shooting sports, archery and member usage. Their mission is to conserve, restore, and promote the sustainable use and enjoyment of our natural resources, including soil, air, woods, waters, and wildlife.
The Kids and Mentors Outdoors Program, which has a long-standing commitment to providing young people with positive outdoor experiences, played a crucial role in recruiting participants. KAMO is a unique group that provides Wisconsin communities with outdoor education activities for children and families. These activities are provided year around and are free to all participants.
Finally, Pass it On-Outdoor Mentos — We coordinate youth hunting, fishing, and shooting opportunities for any youth that want to get outdoors! This event was specially organized and advertised to different trap teams who were able to send multiple members to go hunting! Outdoor Mentors made it a safe, welcoming, and free environment for all that participated!
A Day in the Field: Learning and Growing Together
The day of the hunt was filled with excitement, learning, and plenty of moments that would be cherished for years to come. The young hunters were split into small groups, each paired with a mentor from the hunting guide service. Before heading out into the field, participants gathered for a safety briefing, where they learned the importance of proper firearm handling, safety rules, and how to approach the hunt with respect for the land and animals.
As the hunt progressed, the youth got to watch how different dog species acted in the field, communicate safe hunting practices, and attempt to harvest any opportunities that were presented to them! For many of the young participants, this was their first time hunting, and the hands-on guidance they received from the volunteer mentors made the experience both educational and safe. Whether they successfully harvested a bird or simply gained valuable experience, every young hunter walked away with a sense of accomplishment.
Perhaps the favorite part of every hunters day is getting together at the end and recalling the tales and experiences they have just created. Whether it be a miraculous shot or clean miss, everyone had something to share in the clubhouse at the end. Something else everyone was able to experience was how to process a pheasant. This valuable skill allows all of the hunters to go and attempt their own hunting and know what to do when successful.
Wrapping Up: The Impact of Cooperation
As the hunt concluded, the groups gathered to reflect on the experience. There were stories shared, high-fives exchanged, and a strong sense of community among the participants. The success of the day wasn’t just measured by the birds that were harvested; it was seen in the smiles on the faces of the young hunters and the knowledge they gained from the experience.
This collaborative event proved that when different groups come together with a shared vision, the impact can be profound. The youth were not only given an opportunity to experience hunting, but they also learned valuable lessons about conservation, safety, and the traditions that have connected people to the outdoors for generations.
Thanks to the combined efforts of the Southwestern Izaak Walton League, Kids and Mentors Outdoors, and the volunteer mentors that assisted, these young hunters left with more than just a memory — they left with a deeper understanding of the world around them and a newfound appreciation for the responsibilities that come with hunting and outdoor activities.
We can only hope that more young people will have the opportunity to experience the wonders of the outdoors in a safe, educational, and supportive environment. If your organizations would like to collaborate for a hunting, fishing, or outdoor experience for youth; please reach out to your Pass it On – Outdoor Mentor’s state coordinator.
