Three years ago, the people behind Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays (LVSC) and the NRA Disabled Shooting Sports Committee asked themselves a question: What can we do to bring inspiration to shooters and would-be shooters who are physically challenged? The answer was obvious to them—a fun shoot designed with disabled shooters in mind. Since then, the National Disability Awareness Shoot has grown to a monthly full-service extravaganza suitable for all levels of ability. We recently had the opportunity to talk to LVSC Event Manager Lori Strohl about it.
1. NRA Family: What was the inspiration behind these Fun Shoots?
Strohl: With approximately 33 million disabled individuals living in the United States today, the National Disability Awareness Shoot was created to help raise awareness and create opportunities in the hunting and shooting sports for those with disabilities. Our goal is to give those with disabilities a renewed hope of what they can do.
2. NRA Family: What sorts of accommodations and amenities can disabled attendees expect on these shoots?
Strohl: Instructors are available for all shooting levels, from beginner to experienced. There are also free motorized scooters (donated by Pride Mobility) and an Action Trackchair for attendees. The shoots held on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays are only for disabled shooters and their guests. (Wednesday events are open to the public.) This allows those that may be hesitant about trying shooting sports a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere with no pressure and no crowds. The events also include up to 100 free targets for disabled individuals, discounted pricing for guests, discounted pricing for shells and free light refreshments.
3. NRA Family: When and where are they held?
Strohl: LVSC is located at 2750 Limestone Street in Coplay, Pennsylvania, 18037. The 2016 dates are as follows:
Monday, April 18th: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tuesday, May 24th: 10 a.m to 3p.m.
Wednesday, June 22nd: 9:30a.m. to 5p.m.
Saturday, July 16th: 5p.m. to 8p.m.
Monday, August 15th: 10a.m. to 3p.m.
Tuesday, September 13th: 10a.m. to 3p.m.
Wednesday, October 12th: 9:30a.m. to 5p.m.
4. NRA Family: How can shooters or their supportive friends and family get involved?
Strohl: To register for the shoot or for more information, please contact me at [email protected] or call (610) 261-9616.
