New Youth Outdoors Mini-Grant Available

The FWS Retirees Association Board announces the second round of mini-grants open for all field stations, NGOs and related partners interested in teaching youth about the diversity of careers in fish and wildlife conservation providing training in outdoor skills.
Background:  Connecting youth with nature includes guiding and teaching outdoor skills for an enjoyable experience that keeps them coming back, understanding conservation career opportunities, and supporting conservation stewardship throughout their lives.  The FWS Retirees Association is committed to help foster these learning experiences by supporting needs of National Wildlife Refuges, National Fish Hatcheries, field stations, and partner locations. Hands-on programs providing repeatable outdoors opportunities will improve the knowledge and experience levels of participants.
Eligibility:  All Friends groups or closely related non-profits are eligible. A limited number of Grants of up to $1,500 are available in 2019.

Youth Outdoors Mini-Grant FAQ

Q: Where can I get an application?
A:  Click here for the application form.

Q: What is the due date for the application?
A: September 30

Q:  What outdoor skills are included in the program?
A: Hunting fishing, archery, birding, nature photography, orienteering, camping, boating, trekking, wilderness survival, outdoor cooking, and more.

Q: What is the performance period?
A: The performance period is one year from the date of awarded funds, with possible extension depending on ability to host multiple events.  If extended, an interim report will be due 30 days after the initial completion of the performance period.  We will also query the awardees about five years from now to see if the grant was a catalyst leading to a sustainable program.

Q: How does one establish a facility as an Outdoor Skills Center? Does it need to be a specifically USFWS facility or can it be a facility/location that a partner utilizes?
A: While it is desirable to have Outdoor Skills Centers on as many FWS locations as possible (connecting future supporters for the FWS mission), we recognize that stations have been partnering with others on outdoor skills training and that the most sustainable option may be at a partner location.

Q:  Where can I learn more about conservation and natural resource careers?
A: Learn more about conservation careers at these locations:
https://youtu.be/ofARYgeyi6g
https://www.fws.gov/training/conservation-connect-series
https://www.fws.gov/story/2021-01/careers

Grants Available for FWS Anniversary Celebrations

Friends groups of Refuges, Fish Hatcheries and other FWS facilities may apply for a matching grant to support significant anniversary celebrations of their facilities, e.g. 50th, 75th, 100th etc. anniversary. Click on the Anniversaries tab to read more and download an application.

Click here to find out what FWS Anniversary Celebrations are coming up!

Projects We Support

New! The Association is offering financial support for Retirees to volunteer at FWS stations to complete needed projects.  Click here to read a description of the Service Station Special Project and call for proposals.

The FWS Retirees Association supported the Advance Leadership  Development Program Cohort VIII with completion of the a trailhead kiosk on the Next Box Path at NCTC.  The kiosk was completed in late 2013.  We are able to support such projects through membership dues and funds raised during the reunions.