The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Tinicum has a unique program to teach archery to the youth in the neighborhoods of Southwest Philadelphia, writes Kiersten Adams for Grid.

The archers celebrated summer solstice at the Wildlife Refuge range recently, learning safety lessons and having target practice with instructor Kelly Kemmerle.

Some participants were there for the first time but others come back every chance they get.

“The most fulfilling aspect is seeing people come back time and time again and have fun, connect with the sport [and] build their skills, and being able to build that rapport with people,” Kemmerle says.

The youth archery program offers a free and accessible way for the neighbors of Southwest Philadelphia to get outside.

Attendees learn about the sport and practice shooting on the refuge’s range with USA Archery instructors at two-hour events on weekday evenings.  

The youth archery staff also partners with local schools and summer camps.

The Refuge also has a hunting program, unique for urban areas, that bridges the gap between archery and conservation. Participants learn about deer tracking, prepping for a hunt, using a crossbow, and choosing a location.

Read more about the archery program at the John Heinz Wildlife Refuge in Grid.