Hunters Show Up.
Beyond conservation and education, our chapter runs community programs for people who could use a hand. That includes veterans, families in the countries where our members hunt, and neighbors closer to home. The Safari Blue Bag program and our veterans outings are the best known.
Want to donate items to the next Blue Bag drive?
The Safari Blue Bag
When members of this chapter hunt internationally — particularly in Africa — they don’t show up empty-handed. The Safari Blue Bag program is a longstanding SCI tradition: hunters fill a duffel bag with school supplies, clothing, shoes, books, medical basics, and other practical goods, and deliver them to communities in the regions where they hunt.
Our outfitters distribute the bags to schools and villages where their staff live and work. It’s not charity from a distance. It’s hunters carrying supplies into the same villages that host them — by hand.
The program runs quietly. Most members don’t talk about it. But it represents one of the most direct, tangible benefits that international hunting brings to rural communities.
I had the privilege of accompanying my husband on a hunting trip to Africa. Although I was hesitant to travel so far from home, after several weeks I became comfortable enough to embrace the adventure.
It was an unforgettable experience that I will share with many people. I enjoyed Africa’s scenery, wildlife in its natural habitat, beautiful sunsets, the chance to touch and feed baby rhinos, and the opportunity to try new foods. Yet the most rewarding part was delivering harvested meat and supplies from the Bell Blue Bag project to a local day school. Even riding as a passenger on the opposite side of the car took some adjustment!
When we arrived, the children gathered around as we displayed coloring books, crayons, art supplies, games, socks, hats, and small toys. Their faces lit up with excitement, and they sang songs with so much enthusiasm! Afterward, I was blessed to spend time with them. They wanted hugs and crowded close, and I wished I could take them all home.
They had so little, yet they were so happy. Their joy reminded me how blessed we are, even when we fail to recognize it. Seeing the excitement in their eyes over simple coloring books and crayons warmed my heart, and I will never look at those items the same way again.
– Danette
Veterans Programs
The chapter has long supported veterans in our region through several recurring programs:
- VA Fishing Outings Regular fishing trips coordinated with area Veterans Affairs facilities, putting veterans on the water with chapter volunteers, gear, and a hot meal.
- Soldiers and Sailors Missions Support for veterans’ programming and recognition events throughout the region.
- Wounded Veteran Hunts Coordinated hunts and outdoor experiences for veterans recovering from service-related injuries.
In Our Own Communities
Beyond the Safari Blue Bag and our veterans programs, the chapter contributes to community projects throughout our region — school events, charity drives, youth programs, and partnerships with local organizations. The list shifts year to year. What stays constant is the principle: hunters belong to their communities, and they show up when their communities need them.
Lend a hand: Safari Blue Bag drives and more
Donate Blue Bag Items
Drop-off coordination for the next Safari Blue Bag drive.
Volunteer at a Veterans Outing
Boats, gear, food, and helpers needed for VA fishing trips.
Fund the Programs
Membership and dinner attendance keep all of this funded year-round.