COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado - USA Archery has developed partnerships with mParks and the New York Society for Recreation and Parks (NYSRPS) to grow archery at the community level in Michigan and New York. As part of these partnerships, USA Archery helped to facilitate grants from the Easton Foundations for archery equipment kits and programming to help implement Explore Archery and next step archery programs for youth and adults.
USA Archery will tie the partnerships to current outreach efforts, including our work to build Explore Archery programs, Junior Olympic Archery Development and Adult Archery Program Clubs. With the generous support of Easton Foundations, Explore Archery grants were awarded to twelve different communities in Michigan and New York. Each grant, valued at $4,000, provides a complete equipment kit and the Explore Archery program curriculum, materials and achievement awards. Two staff members from each community were also certified as USA Archery Level 2 Instructors.
"We are excited to partner with mParks and NYSRPS to continue our efforts to develop accessible archery programming in community park and recreation departments," commented Mary Emmons, USA Archery Director of Program Development. "We hope that Explore Archery will serve as the foundation for the development of next step archery programs, clubs and events, providing additional opportunities for new participants to stay involved in the sport of archery."
Grant recipient Tony Burkinshaw, Recreation Supervisor for the Town of Lysander, New York shared: "The Explore Archery program came at the right time for us as we look to pivot our focus on more outdoor recreational activities and programs. This archery grant will defiantly help us meet that need and give us a chance to explore a new outdoor activity through the sport of archery. The Explore Archery program exceeded my expectations and I am excited to bring this new program to our community this fall."
Ann Conklin, the Executive Director for mParks commented: "mParks is thrilled to be offering this first-time opportunity to our membership. With this grant, communities are going to be at the forefront of archery programs in the state, opening up new programming opportunities for recreation departments in Michigan. mParks is committed to the success of this partnership and plans to dedicate time and resources to its growth and longevity."
USA Archery is proud to support these developmental programs and to further our mission by providing the necessary resources to foster strong athlete participation, competition and training in the sport of archery.
To find a USA Archery Club in your area click here or contact USA Archery at [email protected] to learn more.
About Explore Archery
Explore Archery is a low-cost, high quality turnkey programming option that offers a comprehensive Instructor's Guide, including activities and lesson plans, awards and games to keep participants engaged and having fun. Program options include Try Archery Events, 1-Day Camps, 1-Week Camps, 6-Week Classes and Birthday Parties.
About mParks and NYSRPS
mParks and NYSRPS provide advocacy, resources and professional development opportunities to a diverse membership of park and recreation agencies, professionals, vendors and advocates who share a common goal of providing quality community recreation opportunities.
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