Safari Club International’s “Share the Impact Outfitter Benefit” online charity event ran from Aug. 1-22 and successfully raised an astounding $552,691 that will go to support guides and outfitters negatively impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
SCI launched the “Share the Impact” movement to bring attention to the crisis faced by guides and outfitters negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent threat to conservation they support and hunters fund through guided adventures. The “Share The Impact Outfitter Benefit” included an online auction of donated items and unique experiences, with 100% of the net proceeds going directly to industry relief through outfitter associations. These associations will provide direct assistance to guides and outfitters, making the most of fundraising contributions for those most negatively impacted by the crisis.
SCI offers special thanks to its many donors who provided unique, one-of-a-kind items and experiences that generated tremendous interest and fundraising support through the online auction. SCI’s Hunter Legacy Endowment Fund, SCI member Larry Shores, SCI Corporate Partners Trijicon, Kenetrek, Wildlife Partners and over a dozen SCI Chapters were among the many donors and supporters.
An impressive roster of some of the best-known celebrities and personalities from around the outdoor industry stepped up as well by donating one-of-a-kind personal experiences, including Jim Shockey, Ivan Carter, Kristy Titus, Nick Hoffman, Chad Belding, Gus Congemi, Larysa Switlyk, Keith Warren, Pat and Nicole Reeve, and Chris Dorsey.
“The challenges being faced by outfitters have affected us all. Without the support of hunters, there will be devastating effects for the wildlife conservation movement worldwide,” SCI CEO W. Laird Hamberlin said. “Thanks to these generous donors and the bidders, we can do the vital work of sharing the impact of the pandemic and supporting our guides and outfitters.”
SCI will continue to “Share The Impact” through cash donations, apparel sales and ticket sales to a special event with the actual horse soldiers portrayed in the movie “12 Strong”.
