Mentoring for the Mission
For Ryan Strugar, introducing young people to the outdoors is about much more than helping them harvest their first turkey. It's about investing in the future of conservation.
"I fully believe the greatest step in wildlife conservation is introducing someone to the outdoors," Strugar said.
That belief has guided Strugar's volunteer efforts over the last several years and made him a valuable partner in helping connect the next generation to hunting and the outdoors.
Strugar, a Michigan NWTF volunteer with ties to Minnesota's Ottertail Lakes Chapter, first connected with the NWTF about five years ago while developing youth turkey camps in Perham, Minnesota. Along the way, he found fellow volunteers who shared the same passion for introducing young people to turkey hunting and conservation.
"Having the same goal of connecting youth with the outdoors and turkey hunting has proven mutually beneficial," Strugar said. "Working with Ralph Warzecha, John Carlson and Nancy McLaughlin has been great."
Through his work with Let's Go Outdoors and as camp director for Fishing For Life, Strugar has dedicated countless hours to creating Christ-centered opportunities that introduce young people to hunting, fishing and conservation.
For six consecutive years, Strugar has hosted the Fishing For Life Youth Turkey Camp in Perham, Minnesota. Throughout the long weekend, campers participate in Christian fellowship, Bible study and hunter education while working toward their hunter safety certification. Guided by experienced mentors, young hunters gain hands-on experience and learn the importance of conservation and ethical hunting practices.
With support from Minnesota NWTF volunteers and funding from the state chapter, campers received hats, turkey calls and first turkey pins, while mentors helped introduce many participants to the traditions and responsibilities that come with hunting.
"Ryan is a great guy with the kids," said Ralph Warzecha, Minnesota NWTF State Chapter president. "He also does firearm safety training and has started seminars in schools using our education information."
Strugar's efforts extend well beyond turkey season. Throughout the year, he hosts firearm safety and trap shooting day camps, presents wild turkey and outdoor education programs in schools and assists with turkey disease sample collection efforts that support wildlife management.
Whether teaching youngsters how to safely handle a firearm, sharing the story of the wild turkey's restoration or helping a new hunter celebrate their first bird, Strugar is committed to creating positive outdoor experiences that last a lifetime.
His passion for mentoring has also opened doors for countless young people to experience fishing, hunting and conservation through Fishing For Life and Let's Go Outdoors.
Working alongside the Ottertail Lakes Chapter and Minnesota NWTF volunteers, Strugar's efforts demonstrate how dedicated volunteers are vital in ensuring the next generation remains connected to the outdoors.