We are often faced with the daunting task of measuring the impact of what we do. It is easy to give club numbers and tell how many people we have shown shooting sports to. But what really matters is how and what we teach the children in our clubs.

In an article in the New Jersey Herald on September 7th, 2005, it is estimated that 1.7 million children live in homes that have loaded or unlocked guns. According to the author the study is based upon a 2002 telephone survey of about 241,000 adults in all 50 states and District of Columbia.

Below is a testimonial from a parent that speaks volumes of the positive impact NJ4H Shooting Sports have had on the youth of today.

“Last summer I was house hunting with Jeffrey (my 14 year old who is a member of Sharpshooters). We were walking through a very nice house that was owned by shooting enthusiasts/hunters. The finished basement was very rustic with some trophy-type antlers and a beautiful gun case with guns. Resting on the OUTSIDE of the gun case was a shotgun. The real estate agent had not been in this particular house before and was admiring the rustic look. She walked over to the gun case and appeared to be ready to touch the gun. Jeffrey was standing next to her, and practically tackled her to get her away from that area. We were startled, and he walked us back over and pointed out that the safety was not on the gun. He then proceeded to explain to the realtor the danger and carelessness of that situation. The realtor thanked him, and notified her agency to contact the owner immediately to take care of this.

This story points to the obvious, that there was the potential for tragedy with this scenario. But, as important to me, was Jeffrey's educated reaction due to his Sharpshooters training. Jeffrey would have been as naive as the realtor just a year and a half early. Worse, he would have been impetuous and excited and would possibly have picked the gun up. The 4-H program truly works as an education tool, and the kids have a great time, too.” Parent of a Middlesex Club Member

The 4-H Youth Development Shooting Sports Program involves kids who have an interest in shooting sports and welcomes them into an accepting, caring group. The first thing they learn is safety. Next they learn discipline, followed by respect (respect for firearms as well as respect for people). They are not permitted to use the firearm until they prove they can handle those three prerequisites.

4-H Shooting Sports Club members learn what it means to be a good citizen, to help others, and to respect others. They develop the skills necessary for success in the workplace as well as interpersonal relationships (life skills). 4-H Adult Volunteer Leaders are positive role models and mentors for kids. They model and teach the kids character while they teach the kids the proper use of and respect for firearms and respect for other people. 4-H Shooting sports programs offer youth who have an interest in shooting sports and firearms to develop into competent, caring and concerned citizens!