Chapter Revival

Volunteers are a major source for most organizations’ continued existence. The labor they put forth, the ideas they contribute and their heart for the organization are colossal contributions.

Jason Wold has been a member of the NWTF since 2015. Five years ago, he found out there was a possibility that his local chapter would dissolve. He made a point to attend the next chapter meeting and volunteered to help lead. In 2022, he was elected president of the Aitkin Gobblers Chapter in Minnesota. He took his new position to heart, immediately creating a succession of enhancements “to shift the culture,” he said.

“My passion for the wild turkey fueled this decision, as I wanted to give something back to the support that had given me so much,” he said. 

The chapter’s fundraising committee made a challenge and pledge for the Aitkin Gobblers Chapter to be named a Patron Life Chapter. They also changed the venue for events, which was, initially, an unpopular decision. The change of venue helped to accommodate the growth of attendees and increased revenue. This is “all culminating in becoming a fundraising Champion for Conservation in Minnesota while consistently earning the national L.A. Dixon Grand Slam Award,” said Kevin Hurst, senior regional director in Minnesota.

Wold also helped increase youth involvement, encouraging the chapter to start a Youth Day at the local gun club. The event focused on teaching children about the outdoors and what the mission of the NWTF is all about. The inaugural year, 70 children participated, and the NWTF Aitkin Gobblers were nominated for a national award for the first time.

“We love to donate back to our communities and that feeling of helping your community is priceless,” Wold said. “I also love getting youth hunters and first-time hunters out turkey hunting for the first time. It’s so rewarding watching them be successful and experience God’s gift of the outdoors.”

Challenging work, loyalty and dedication gave Wold and his wife, Brittny, both Diamond Life members of the NWTF, courage to make changes and expand. Brittny is a major supporter, and she also chairs the Central Minnesota Gobblers banquet. Jason had been heading the local chapter for a few years when Hurst informed him that the Central Minnesota Gobblers of Nisswa and Brainerd was going to be closing. Jason penned a letter to all the members and started advertising for a leader. He found someone that stepped up to guide the chapter, but after only two weeks, the new leader stepped down.

When approached by Hurst if he had any thoughts of going forward with the chapter’s upcoming banquet, Jason discussed the situation with Brittny, and she heartily agreed to take on the position for a short term until someone could be found.

“Brittany and I have been working hard to find that right person, but we are starting our third year with the Central Minnesota Chapter,” Jason said.

The couple continues to have a strong impact on their community and region because of their passion for the mission.

“We love the outdoors [community] NWTF has opened for my family,” Jason said. “We have met so many wonderful people since getting involved. Lifelong friendships have been created through NWTF.

“The wild turkey and our hunting heritage is something we must fight to preserve!” 

He also made it clear: “Most importantly, knowing that God is the cornerstone and foundation of the NWTF. Without God’s blessings, we wouldn’t have any of this.”