ST. MARYS — Currently in the works, the new Handy Camp organization will help teach those with disabilities how to access the outdoors - in particular how to fish and hunt.
Founded by Brian DeGuire, president, the organization is based out of Dagus Mines and is geared toward men, women and child of all ages.
Joining DeGuire are Dan Whitman, secretary, and Gary Streich, treasurer.
According to DeGuire, the organization is currently in its fundraising stage. He said he plans to run the camp through government, private and corporate funding.
DeGuire said the location of the camp cannot be disclosed due to pending business transaction; however, the area includes 10 square miles of land on the border of Elk County.
The camp will offer a variety of activities for participants ranging from a shooting and archery range, a small lake for fishing and acres of hunting.
“I would also like to eventually raise turkeys and manage a deer farm on the land,” DeGuire said.
In addition, other activities planned include fish rodeos, clay shoots and guest instructors, specifically those who have invented products for use for disabled outdoorsmen.
Involvement with national outdoors organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever and the National Wild Turkey Foundation - as well as local sportsmen clubs - will also play a key role in attracting participants.
“I would eventually like to see the state to create more accessible hunting areas for the disabled across PA,” DeGuire said.
The idea for the camp has been 24 years in the making. As on ongoing goal of DeGuire’s, he said he came up with the idea when he was younger. At that time, he often hunted with some of his friends in wheelchairs, participating in numerous outdoor activities together.
“My goal is to show and teach people about the outdoors and how anyone can access it,” DeGuire said. “The more natural you keep it, the better it’s going to be.”
As part of the all-inclusive camp, DeGuire said they can process animals at the site as there is a butcher on site. He also plans to work with a local taxidermist.
Participants are required to make reservations which will help determine what type of equipment they will need. DeGuire said equipment will be provided to participants, which will also be available for purchase.
Another aspect of community involvement DeGuire hopes to incorporate is getting the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts involved with the project.
DeGuire said Clarion University assisted him with the business plan for the camp at no cost. During that time, he said he received many positive comments and words of encouragement.
For more information or if interested in contributing to the organization, contact Brian DeGuire at 885-6931.
