Businesses, community leaders come together to support youth, outdoor traditions

RAPID CITY, S.D.– South Dakota Youth Hunting Adventures is a one-of-a-kind program that matches kids with experienced hunters to get them outdoors and expose them to the state’s hunting traditions.

Many of the kids come from Rapid City and have never had the opportunity to get outside the urban area and experience the great outdoors. Once matched with mentors, the kids get the opportunity to learn hunting safety and go after just about all the wild game South Dakota has to offer.

Brian Mueller is the treasurer for the organization, saying that the 700 attendees makes this the largest in YHA history.

“Yeah, this is a great way for the community to get involved in what we’re doing and help give back a little bit,” he explained. “People come down here and donate their hard-earned money to help the kids, help our program, get kids outdoors, and have a great experience. It’s a one of a kind program. There’s nothing else like it in the nation, and it’s great fun to be part of.”

Mueller says the organization is always looking for mentors, with more than two dozen youth who are waiting to be matched.

The banquet and auction is one of two major fundraisers for the organization, the other being The Black Hills Outdoor Show, held each winter.