Featured photo by Glynn Harris
The basic way that sporting organizations raise funds for their programs is the scheduling of annual fund raising banquets to benefit the organization.
This coming Thursday, July 30, the Lincoln Parish Chapter of Whitetails Unlimited will host its annual get-together at the Ruston Civic Center and if what has happened each year with this banquet is any indication, you can look for one of the largest crowds this area has to support the organization’s fund raisingefforts.
I have been privileged to attend the annual banquet each year since the first one was held 11 years ago and I have been impressed with not only the number of people in attendance but also the level of enthusiasm I have noted each year.
There are two basic reasons why this banquet is so popular. One, it features one of this area’s favorite sporting activities, deer hunting. Also, Whitetails Unlimited offers a unique way in which funds are distributed. Half of the money raised goes to the national organization to improve the lot of whitetail deer but the kicker is that half the money stays right here at home to assist reputable organizations.
As a non-profit organization, the event will include dinner, auction, and prizes with a wide array of firearms, hunting gear and other unique items.
Funds are distributed locally to assist 4-H club shooting sports activities, the archery range located at Lincoln Parish Park is one of the recipients of funds as well as funds to assist organizations that focus efforts to assist kids with handicaps.
Starting last year, funds were made available to a new organization, Cross Trail Outfitters, a group that targets disadvantaged youngsters in not only allowing them the opportunity to be involved in hunting and fishing but also introduces them to Christianity.
According to the brochure Whitetails Unlimited makes available, attendees to the annual banquet can sponsor tables. For example, for groups that purchase a platinum table receive eight banquet tickets, a three-piece Browning knife set, entry into a sponsor-only drawing along with the recipient of a rifle and thermal scope.
Participants are invited to become a youth sponsor of a gun to be given away to a youngster at the banquet.
The family-oriented banquet kicks off when the doors open at 5:30 with a catered meal served around 7:30.
Tickets, $50 single and $25 for spouse or child are available at the door. Also they can be purchased from committee members or by mailing check and ticket order to McKinney Honda, 715 North Service Road, Ruston, LA 71270.
This is your invitation to offer your support to this outstanding organization that keeps half of the money raised right here at home.
Even if you aren’t a deer hunter, this is one event you will enjoy with everything being offered. Make plans now to attend the banquet this Thursday, July 30 at the Ruston Civic Center. I’m betting you will come home feeling good about all this group does. Too, you might just come home with one of the outstanding products that will be given away that night.