Since 1993 Sportsmen for youth have been working on a 1 day experience in Muskegon County to bring families together with organizations from the world of outdoors sports to show kids the meaning and value of things that are NOT video games, computer screens, social media and all that is the daily pressures of society today. While we might not need to go out and “hunt and gather” for food like we did once upon a time, we too may have lost some of what that brought. The tranquility of being outdoors. The physical demands of getting to your “spot” and the time spent with family….maybe sitting in a boat, waiting for a fish to bite. Will the “good old days” repeat? Probably not….but let’s spark an interest at least and get the kids out for a free day of fun and experiential learning.
Plan on a day. It’s a great one too. It’s all free for kids. Everything from admission to food is provided free of charge and while supplies last, about 2500 for kids, there will be gift bags, with shirts and other cool stuff for the kids. Lunch comes on a frisbee! So that’s a fun twist and parents, if you’re hungry too…lunch is dirt cheap for you. From their website – “Every participating organization creates a unique educational experience for those in attendance. To highlight past favorites, Michigan Anglers hosts an above ground pond holding live trout, to allow each child the opportunity to go fishing – for real fish! Conservation clubs, the DNR and local 4H organizations bring in live animals, allowing the youth to touch and hold animals of all shapes and sizes. Safari Club International’s Sensory Safari Trailer exhibits animal mounts from around the world – encouraging all to touch and feel the bristles of a Warthog to the smooth silky pelts of the Mink provided by the Michigan Trappers and Predator Callers. ”
Brian Harris who’s been a part of the expo for years joins us today to talk about the event. His work for this and countless other activities in Muskegon County are his give back for his years as a Muskegon County Deputy. He’s also passionate about safety, kids and family so this event is really paramount to him along with so many other public safety officials. They too are on hand with demonstrations of trucks and equipment that kids love to see up close and get a better look at. Be it a chance to see a local fire department’s hovercraft for water rescues, seeing a mounted animal up close to see just how big they really are or even the chance to try a bow and arrow in a safe and controlled environment, this is a day filled with highly stimulating activity and above all, really intelligent and committed people to their craft. What that means, in unfiltered terms is that the idea of safety and responsibility come first here. Compare that with what kids are taught about in video games and on TikTok.
This is your invite. Here’s the SPORTSMEN FOR YOUTH WEBSITE. Here’s the SPORTSMEN FOR YOUTH FACEBOOK PAGE. Bring the entire family out for a day of fun, friends and community. Our thanks to Brian and all those who bring this to life annually for our kids.
