The Inclusive Hunt

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The Inclusive Hunt - November 10-12th, 2023

Touch of Nature’s Inclusive Hunt is an event designed exclusively for individuals with disabilities who have a passion for archery, deer hunting, and the outdoors. Hosted on the 3100 acres of private land at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, this unique archery deer hunt is a celebration of accessibility, camaraderie of deer camp and shared experiences. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, you can apply to join independently or with a helper by your side. For those in need of a helper, worry not – dedicated volunteer helpers will be readily available. Our mission is to ensure that everyone can participate and create lasting memories.

About the Hunt

We are committed to ensuring an unparalleled hunting experience for our participants. To achieve this, we take the extra step of temporarily closing our expansive 3100 acres, including 12 miles of public mountain bike trails. This deliberate closure is a testament to our dedication in creating a pristine and undisturbed environment, allowing our hunting participants to immerse themselves fully in the natural surroundings all while promoting utmost level of safety. By providing this exclusive access, we craft a sanctuary where the hunt unfolds in harmony with the untouched wilderness, elevating the authenticity of every moment spent on our grounds.

At the Inclusive Hunt, inclusivity extends to the hunt itself. Harvested deer can be processed right on site, courtesy of our volunteer crew, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. We believe in making every step of the experience convenient and enjoyable for our participants. And to truly immerse yourself in the hunt, lodging is provided in our rustic yet comfortable dormitory-style building right on the premises. As you embrace the thrill of the hunt, savor the camaraderie over meals served in our welcoming onsite dining hall.

Driven by the compassion and dedication of our volunteers, we are devoted to making a positive impact. In line with this commitment, we extend our assistance to hunters who, after the hunt, find themselves without a harvested deer. Our goal is to help them stock their freezers for the winter or provide for their families. Our volunteers strive to ensure that the venison meat we offer serves as a means of sustenance and care, embodying the spirit of community and support that defines our initiative.

Join the "Inclusive Hunt" Adventure!

Ready to experience archery and inclusivity like never before? Here's your guide:

Apply by September 31- Whether online or on paper, we're ready for your application.

Proof of Disability- Share verification to ensure inclusivity. Share any of the following to meet criteria:

  • IL Disability Identification Card
  • IDNR Standing Vehicle Permit
  • Veterans Administration ID Card
  • Social Security Benefit Letter
  • Physician Verification
  • Other forms of identification by request

Selective Acceptance- We consider disability impact, urgency, number of past hunting opportunities, and personal statements. A maximum of 40 helpers and hunters will be accepted to hunt. If more than 40 people apply, the hunt participants will be chosen through a selection process with an alternate list for any cancellations.  Hunters will be chosen based on severity of their disability, ability to hunt in other specialized hunts other than the Touch of Nature Hunt, and past participation at the Touch of Nature Hunt.   

Acceptance Notifications- After reviewing, we'll notify you of acceptance. Results will be released on October 15

Affordability- Costs are $55 / person, but we're flexible under circumstances of financial constraints. The cost includes meals daily and basic rustic lodging. For an extra fee, you can opt for upgraded hotel-style accommodations.

Licenses and Safety- All participants chosen are responsible to purchase their own 2023 deer-hunting license and tags. Please visit Deer Permit Applications (illinois.gov) for more information.  ALL hunters MUST present proof of Hunter Safety Education course AND sign Touch of Nature's Safe Hunter Contract prior to participation in hunt. More information may be found here.

Ready to apply? Please select the appropriate application, fill it out, and submit it. Paper applications available upon request. Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by our team and acceptances will follow in October. Call 618-453-1121 or email ton@siu.edu with any questions

Applications

Hunter: Person applying to attend hunt who has a disability. This person will be the individual who is seeking a hunting opportunity. Applicant does not need to be a seasoned hunter but must have the skills necessary to hunt independently OR with a helper present.

Hunter Application

Helper: Applying to attend hunt WITH a hunter who is also currently applying to attend hunt. This application is for helpers who are applying to be a helper for their family/friend already applying.

Helper Application

Volunteer: Please apply here if you are interested in assisting with any of the following: tracking, field dressing, practice range, setting stands/blinds, processing, or any other tasks.

Volunteer Application