Indiana's NWTF State Chapter Wins National Award for Educating Youth

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — Volunteers with the Indiana State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation are dedicated to preserving North America's outdoor traditions by providing opportunities for youth to learn outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, shooting and more.

The National Wild Turkey Federation's Indiana State Chapter received the Best State JAKES Event Award at the NWTF's 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show in Nashville. Click image for print quality version

"Since we're dealing with youth, we really strive to promote safe and etchical hunting practices, said Earl Griswold, JAKES coordinator for the Indiana State Chapter. "Our state chapter has never won anything like this, so it's a new beginning for us. Now that the event has been this successful, we want to keep it going strong next year."

The Indiana State Chapter hosted a JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship) event that was one of the best out of more than 1,000 JAKES events hosted by NWTF chapters nationwide.

"Hunting, fishing, shooting and other outdoor activities are safe, enjoyable and educational for youth," said Mandy Harling, JAKES program coordinator. "The Indiana State Chapter has taken the lead in their area for ensuring that young people understand how important conservation and being good stewards of land and wildlife are to our hunting heritage."

The NWTF's JAKES program is dedicated to teaching the principles of wildlife management and passing along the traditions of safe, ethical and responsible hunting to youth up to age 12.

The Xtreme JAKES program was developed for teens between the ages of 13 and 17. The program provides advanced outdoor opportunities and challenges more in line with older JAKES abilities and experiences.

Combined, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES events held throughout North America attracted more than 75,000 youth in 2009. The JAKES program is growing steadily, and earning a JAKES award has become increasingly competitive. Any local NWTF chapter that hosts a JAKES event can apply for the JAKES awards.

For more information about the JAKES program or the NWTF visit www.nwtf.org or call (800) THE-NWTF.

2010 Convention Sponsors: Affinity4, ATK/Federal Premium Ammunition, Bank of America, Bass Pro Shops, Benelli, Browning, Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, CamoFX, Chevrolet, Farm Service Agency, Foxy Huntress, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, HuntVe, Knight Rifles, Leupold & Stevens, Marlin Firearms Company, MeadWestvaco, MidwayUSA, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, National Band & Tag Co., O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., Mossy Oak and The Pursuit Channel, The Outdoor Connection, Remington Arms Company, Inc., SHE Outdoor Apparel, TriStar Sporting Arms, USDA Forest Service, Weatherby, Inc., Wild Turkey Bourbon, Winchester Division/Olin Corp.