Embracing Inclusivity in Hunting: The NWTF Wheelin’ Sportsmen Inclusive Archery Hunt

By Lindsay Meverden, Michael Howie

Photos courtesy of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

Two people stand looking at a map. One individual points with a pen at a location on the map. In the background a person sits at a white rectangular table.

On a crisp November evening, 75 outdoor enthusiasts gathered in a rustic dining hall nestled in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. It marked the opening night of the National Wild Turkey Federations’ (NWTF) Wheelin’ Sportsmen Inclusive Archery Deer Hunt, a distinctive deer camp designed specifically for individuals with disabilities and their companions. This event provides a rare and cherished opportunity for hunters to relish the season alongside family, friends and dedicated volunteers.

Thoughtful Planning for Accessibility

Determining hunting spots on the opening night is a meticulous process overseen by experienced volunteer hunters who ensure that each participant’s unique needs are met. The diversity of disabilities among attendees necessitates careful planning. Volunteers diligently review files of the hunters they are assigned to support, focusing on mobility needs and other accommodations. The preparation includes customizing blinds, stands, or other setups to ensure comfort and accessibility. An example of this dedication is our partnership with Access Ability Wisconsin, which provides NWTF with all-terrain outdoor wheelchairs, allowing hunters to independently access their spots with ease.

A few people stand near an all-terrain vehicle and a few people sit inside the vehicle. All of the individuals in the group wear camouflage gear. In the background is a line of trees against an overcast day.

Support and Camaraderie

The Inclusive Archery Hunt is more than an event; it’s an immersive experience that fosters a strong sense of community. Food and lodging are provided in a classic deer camp setting, with fireside dinners in a 1960s-style rustic dining hall. Participants savor meals such as beef stew with cornbread and chicken and dumplings, with homemade apple pie being a particular favorite. The camaraderie is further enhanced by shared traditions, such as gathering around indoor and outdoor fires after morning and evening hunts, a tradition that has grown stronger with the occasional light snowfall, unusual for southern Illinois.

Creating a Safe Haven

To provide an unparalleled experience, the outdoor education center grounds the hunt is hosted on are temporarily closed to the public. This exclusive access creates a serene and undisturbed environment, enhancing both safety and the authentic hunting experience. Participants often express their appreciation for this unique opportunity, describing the grounds as a haven for hunting, where they can observe deer in their natural habitat, unbothered by human activity. Safety is paramount, with a comprehensive safety meeting on opening night and ensuring that hunting spots are always more than 100 yards apart, except for companions who are within visual range of their hunter.

In a fall woodland, a hunter in camouflage gear lays down next to a harvested deer with antlers. The person raises one arm while holding his phone and takes a photo of himself and the deer.

A Complete Hunting Experience

Support extends beyond the hunt itself. Harvested deer are processed on-site by a volunteer crew. Utilizing a summer camp kitchen, the volunteer crew bring in their own knives and grinders, butcher paper, and other necessary tools. This service helps keep costs down for hunters. The lodging includes dormitory-style buildings with 10 to 12 rooms, each equipped with two twin beds, and common restroom facilities with showers. The temperature-controlled environment ensures comfort during cold nights or light snowfall, creating a welcoming and communal atmosphere.

Powered by Volunteers

The success of the NWTF Wheelin’ Sportsmen Inclusive Archery Hunt is driven by the dedication of its 20-plus volunteers, ranging in age from 18 to 80. Many volunteers are experienced hunters with a history of supporting hunters with disabilities. Their commitment is exemplified by those who use their vacation time to volunteer for both the children’s hunt and the large Inclusive Hunt. Volunteers also ensure that hunters who do not harvest a deer are offered meat from donated deer, embodying the spirit of inclusion and community support.

Building a Community

The hunt is more than just an event; it’s a community where participants form lasting bonds. Around the campfire, stories abound, and connections are made. A remarkable story from last season, published by NWTF, captures the essence of these experiences. Participants often exchange contact information, becoming hunting buddies outside of this event, with many returning year after year. The friendships formed, especially among the children, are particularly touching and enduring.

A Special Hunt for Children

A young girl stands next to two men in a fall woodland. The man on the left wears camouflage gear.

In addition to the Inclusive Archery Hunt, a separate, intimate hunting experience is organized specifically for children with disabilities. This smaller event typically involves six young hunters, with 2023 being the inaugural year. Each child is paired with a volunteer guide who acts as a mentor, ensuring a safe and supportive hunting experience. The child’s parent or guardian is also involved, providing an additional layer of comfort and security.

Looking Forward

Looking to the future, we aim to continue enhancing our setups to accommodate the diverse needs of our participants. Expanding our equipment inventory, including camouflage, bows, crossbows, broadheads, ladder stands and climbers, is a key goal. We also engage in year-round fundraising to offset costs for hunters and companions, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder participation. The actual cost per participant and companion is approximately $250 each, covering lodging and food, yet we only charge $50 and will not turn anyone away due to inability to pay.

Getting Involved

Call To Action: Disabilities are not always visible; individuals may require support to participate in outdoor activities like hunting, even without using assistive devices or appearing with a visible disability. This hunt embraces all disabilities, including visual impairments, developmental challenges, and supporting veterans with PTSD who may not feel comfortable hunting public lands. Whether someone recently had knee replacement surgery, is undergoing chemotherapy, or is in hospice care, our goal is to help everyone achieve their outdoor aspirations. Disability encompasses a broad spectrum beyond wheelchairs, encouraging us to think creatively and inclusively in facilitating outdoor experiences for all.

New participants interested in joining the hunt can apply by contacting Michael Howie, Illinois Wheelin’ Sportsmen Coordinator. We welcome seasoned hunters and newcomers alike, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy the thrill of hunting and the warmth of community.

Lindsay Meverden brings a unique blend of passion and expertise to her role in the NWTF hunt, combining her lifelong love for outdoor pursuits with professional insights from her education in Recreational Therapy and Physical Therapy. She is dedicated to promoting inclusive hunting experiences, advocating that nature should be enjoyed by all, irrespective of physical challenges. Merverden strives to innovate adaptive strategies that ensure everyone can participate fully in outdoor adventures, embodying her belief in the universal right to explore and connect with the natural world.

Michael Howie, NWTF Wheelin’ Sportsman’s Coordinator for Illinois, resides near the Middle Fork River in Potomac (Vermilion County), with his family. A passionate hunter since childhood, Howie’s life changed after a house fire left him disabled and reliant on oxygen. Despite challenges, including depression, he rediscovered his love for hunting through adaptive techniques. He now inspires others with disabilities to pursue outdoor adventures, emphasizing inclusivity in hunting.