05/29/2024
Many of you know I'm involved in a number of youth programs such as Agriventure Farm Camp at Memory Lane Farm and recently I took on the position of Troopmaster for Trail Life USA for troop 8095 at Bluff View Church. I love providing opportunities to get kids off the screen and into exploring the world we live in.
Kids need to be given opportunities to experience as much as possible, especially outdoors. Learning how to use a compass, observe wildlife and the list goes on. Equipment seems to hold back many kids. Parents may not want to make an investment for a one time use or the whim of the week. Maybe money is tight and cannot afford camping gear or fishing poles.
So, where am I going with all this? There are food pantries, clothing closets and many other outreach programs but nothing for adventure. I have been thinking for some time about having an Outfitters Pantry and I believe God has pushed me to get something going.
What would an Outfitters Pantry look like? Well, I think it would have outdoor equipment that could be signed out for use FREE of charge, kind of like a library. Camping gear, fishing gear, snowshoes, hunting clothes, compasses, binoculars, telescopes, rock hammers and so forth. Any and all outdoor adventure related items. Maybe even canoes, kayaks and life jackets. Hopefully I would get to a point where classes would be available.
I might be a little crazy but I'm going to jump in and do it. So, clean out your garage and basement. I'm asking for donations for any good, serviceable outdoor adventure equipment. Although my focus would be youth, adult equipment is also welcome. Now, I don't know the legal stuff regarding money donations but maybe gift cards to places like the Sports Den or Fleet Farm would be ok. I'll be looking into this further.
Please consider helping kids get outside, pray for this and wish me luck.
Thanks
