NWTF Nebraska Bolsters Archery in the Schools

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — The Nebraska NWTF State Chapter allocated $4,136 to reduce the cost of bows, arrows, targets and safety and repair equipment for current and new archery programs, helping bring the sport to more schools in Nebraska.

“The National Archery in the Schools Program has been a vital contribution to R3 efforts in Nebraska for nearly 20 years,” said Michael Addison, NWTF Nebraska R3 coordinator. “NASP introduces over 25,000 students from all backgrounds to shooting sports each year in Nebraska and provides these students the opportunity to connect with others and learn life skills. The impact of NASP can be seen in the thousands of students that go on to become recreational sport shooters, hunters, competitors and outdoor enthusiasts, all of which help to support conservation. The NWTF is proud to partner with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to provide support and help bring these opportunities to more schools and students.”

The National Archery in the Schools Program, which teaches international-style archery, is taught to students in grades four through 12. The program has been shown to increase student engagement, improve academic performance and is embraced by students from all backgrounds.

“Each year, we have schools across the state that want to start the Archery in the Schools Program but struggle to secure the funds to make it happen,” said Aaron Hershberger, Nebraska NASP state coordinator. “This support from the state chapter, as well as local NWTF volunteers and members, will go a long way in removing that hurdle.”

Each year, the Nebraska NWTF State Chapter allocates funds for a variety of conservation and education and outreach events. Funding for these projects is provided through the NWTF Super Fund, a funding model where NWTF volunteers raise money at banquets and other types of fundraisers and then allocate a significant portion of those funds back into meaningful conservation and outreach projects the state board of directors approves.

“This type of support continues to be critical as we look to engage wider audiences in outreach efforts that recruit, retain and reactivate hunters and recreational shooters in Nebraska,” Hershberger said.

About the National Wild Turkey Federation

Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has conserved or enhanced over 22 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The organization continues to drive wildlife conservation, forest resiliency and robust recreational opportunities throughout the U.S. by working across boundaries on a landscape scale.

2023 is the NWTF’s 50th anniversary and an opportunity to propel the organization’s mission into the future while honoring its rich history. For its 50th anniversary, the NWTF has set six ambitious goals: positively impact 1 million acres of wildlife habitat; raise $500,000 for wild turkey research; increase membership to 250,000 members; dedicate $1 million to education and outreach programs; raise $5 million to invest in technology and NWTF’s people; and raise $5 million to build toward a $50 million endowment for the future. Learn how you can help us reach these lofty goals.