BROKEN BOW—Dedicated to promoting positive experiences in the great outdoors, Hunters for Youth (HFY) aims to “provide youth with the experience of hunting, fishing, target shooting, archery, nature walking, and camping” (as stated in the banquet program).
The nonprofit organization hosted its first annual banquet fundraiser on Saturday night. HFY implements a mentor program for one-on-one outdoor experiences and also group programs, without costing youth or their parents who might not otherwise have these opportunities to enjoy nature in Nebraska.
An avid hunter out of North Loup and staff member of Shoot Like a Girl –SLG2, Angie Kokes served as the guest speaker on Saturday night sharing her stories of determination from learning to hunt all the way to spear hunting.
“I truly believe with all my heart that failure is only an option if you choose to quit,” Kokes said.
Hunters for Youth Event Coordinator/Office Manager Holly Johnson said the first annual event went well and that around $10,000 was raised from the live and silent auctions, raffles, and games. She and HFY volunteers are grateful to the more than 200 adults and children that attended the event, as well as sponsors and donors.
“I’m elated as to the amount of people that came and participated and bought auction [items] and you know, the kids that were there I know had a ball!” Johnson said.
Johnson said all of the money raised will stay local with the Berwyn headquarters and will be used to assist the existing and potential new chapters.
HFY includes multiple chapters which are located in Broken Bow (Loup Valley Chapter), North Platte (Flat Rock Chapter), and St. Paul (APEX Outdoorsmen Chapter) and the headquarters are located in Berwyn.
