Grant helps non-profit group mentor young hunters

KANSAS CITY Mo -- A $10,000 grant from the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation is boosting an organization that introduces youths to hunting traditions.

The Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation, based in Pleasant Hill, Mo., conducts clinics and guided hunts to introduce young people ages 9 to 17 to hunting. The non-profit group recently used the grant money to purchase equipment needed to conduct clinics such as firearms training gear, trap shooting equipment and youth model firearms, plus a trailer to haul the gear to clinic sites.

This spring, the Federation conducted two youth turkey hunting clinics in Cass and Clay counties. Participants take a hunter safety course, practice shooting firearms and then mentors take them hunting. The group, founded in 2006, has offered 27 clinics in conjunction with hunting seasons. Even more clinics will be held annually as new county-based chapters are organized, said Allan Hoover, the Federation’s executive director. But the grant-funded equipment is critical to success.

“When I pull in with the trailer, the chapters will have everything they need to conduct their first clinic,” Hoover said.

The federation also welcomes new members, volunteers and donors who want to help introduce youths to hunting. Often the youth served will have no other access to the hunting sports, Hoover said. Both archery and firearms hunting methods are taught.

For more information about the Federation or to participate in a clinic, call Hoover at 816-540-3908. Information is also available on the organization’s website at www.mhhf.us.

The Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization that provides funding for conservation and outdoor recreation projects. For information or to donate, go to www.mochf.org.