The use of firearms is a pervading topic both locally and nationally, and everybody can understand the value of proper training in firearms and archery. Bryan County Extension is making a difference in the community by engaging and teaching youth safe and correct ways to handle firearms through the Project SAFE 4-H shooting sports program.

Project SAFE is a hands-on program that teaches lifelong skills and promotes youth development using 4-H essentials such as belonging and mastery.

“Relationships are an integral part of successful development in the lives of youths,” Richard Evans, the Bryan County Cooperative Extension agent, said. “Not every child is going to be an academic standout or an athlete, and 4-H helps to fulfill something different for kids that feel they don’t fit a certain category. SAFE does so by offering new relationship opportunities and a sense of belonging that youth crave.”

The SAFE programs also offer youth a chance to master a skill that can help promote confidence.  Evans said confidence and self-assurance are pivotal traits in developing youth in Bryan County. 

“Youth rely on the joy they receive from interests, hobbies and group participation to balance disappointments in other parts of their life,” said Kim Kroymann, a 4-H volunteer and SAFE coach.

Bryan County’s Project SAFE program currently has a BB gun team and shotgun team. The program is hoping to field an archery team by next season. 

However, the program needs coaches for both teams to serve both north and south Bryan County. All coaches attend a certified coaches training, where they receive nine hours of training in their discipline and four hours training in youth development. 

If shooting sports are a passion and serving the community is an interested, please give the Bryan County Extension office a call at 912-653-2231 to join the team or send an email to uge3029@uga.edu.