The NRA Foundation Awards $4,570 to the Fulton 4-H Shooting Sports program

By - Krista K. Gray, Fulton Co. 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator

Fulton County 4-H - Air Rifle

The NRA Foundation has awarded the Fulton County 4-H Shooting Sports program a grant valued at $4,570 to fund shotgun and rifle ammunition, in addition to targets and other supplies. "We are very thankful for the continued support we have received from the NRA," said Krista Gray, Fulton 4-H program coordinator "The financial support and necessary supplies make it possible for more kids to be able to be involved."

A total of 35 youth have been active in the 2024-2025 4-H Shooting Sports program. Shooting Sports is one of the most successful endeavors of the University of Illinois 4-H program. Fulton County is in its twelfth year of offering Shooting Sports to area youth ages 8 to 18.

“We offer a fall session and spring session each year,” explained Gray. “Our spring session just started on April 6th, and the youth and volunteers were excited to be back out on the line. Terry Cremer, Jaysen Delpierre, Louis Gray, Craig Hand, Ellie Nolan, Brad Robinson, Lee Roy Knuppel, and Lonnie Van Pelt are our certified Shooting Sports instructors over the air rifle, archery, .22 caliber pistol, .22 rifle, and shotgun disciplines.”

4-H Shooting Sports is designed to provide a safe, fun environment for youth to learn life skills while learning respect of firearms. The activities of the program and the support of caring adult leaders give young people a chance to develop skills in decision making, self-responsibility, teamwork, and leadership. Fulton 4-H Shooting Sports volunteers have built a strong, local program that includes the added benefits of camaraderie among the members and families.

“In 4-H, we are proud of the sense of belonging we have in our programs. Our Shooting Sports program is a perfect example of that,” noted Gray. “Positive character development is a top priority in shooting sports. The outdoor sportsmanship skills developed are just an added bonus.”

Youth and adults can get involved in the 4-H Shooting Sports program. Additional adult volunteers are always welcome to apply to the program. Shooting sports volunteer trainings are offered three times per year. Interested adults can contact Krista Gray at the U of I Extension office for volunteer application details; visit the website at extension.illinois.edu/fmpt/4-h-fulton-county or call 309-547-3711.