[Image: Shooting Sports emblem]The 4-H Outdoor Skills is an activity for everyone – girls, boys, young, old, urban and rural. Participation in the program is not limited by skill or physical abilities. The 4-H Outdoor Skills program is open to any youth ages 9-19 regardless of where they attend school. It is a fun, action-oriented program.
Mission Statement: The mission of the Parish 4-H Outdoor Skills Program is to assist youth in acquiring knowledge, developing life skills, and forming attitudes so that they may become self-directing, productive, and contributing members of society.
The program is designed to:
- Assist youth to learn safe and responsible use of shooting equipment;
- Promote the highest standards of safety, sportsmanship and ethical behavior;
- Enhance self-confidence, self-concept, decision making, character, personal development, responsibility, and sportsmanship;
- Develop leadership and citizenship within 4-H parameters for youth and adults;
- Expand 4-H membership and involve more volunteer adult leaders;
- To strengthen families through participation in life-long recreational activities;
- Create an appreciation and understanding of natural resources;
- To encourage participation in natural resources and related natural science programs by exposing participants to the content through hunting/fishing and related activities.
- To develop an understanding of the principles of wildlife management;
- To complement and enhance the impact of existing safety, shooting and hunter educational programs (Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries).
The program relies on state 4-H certified/ trained instructors to conduct classes in the various disciplines (archery, air rifle, .22 rifle, shotgun, muzzle loading and hunting/outdoor skills).
The program requires 4-H certified instructors to adhere to the safety rules and regulations as dictated by the program to decrease the probability of accidents and injuries as well as enhance the educational experience.
The attached Handbook contains Contact Information, Calendor of Events, Discipline Opportunities, Registration Form and Parental permission letter.