The success of many 4-H programs can be attributed to the strong leadership that guides them, and the Henderson County 4-H Shooting Sports program is a prime example. The dedicated leaders of this program have invested hundreds of hours in teaching, planning, and fundraising. Club members practice weekly throughout the year to strengthen their skills, with many competing in regional contests during the spring and summer to prepare for the State 4-H Shooting Sports Contest in September. In 2024, seventeen club members registered for the state contest, marking the program’s first placement in over twenty years. The 15-18-year-old compound archery team secured third place overall, and one archer placed second in his division. Additionally, several shotgun participants set personal records.

The Henderson County Shooting Sports program was revived in the summer of 2015 and has since fostered a strong sense of community, bringing together parents and youth while building a valuable sense of belonging. Last year, the program raised over $5,000 through fundraisers and donations, enabling youth to practice more frequently and purchase the necessary equipment to excel. As the program has grown, the need for more volunteers has become evident. One volunteer has actively sought leadership opportunities at the state level: joining the State Shooting Sports Advisory Committee; receiving a Shooting Sports Coach Award at the Kentucky Volunteer Forum; and earning Level II certification at the National 4-H State Shooting Sports Certification this fall. Additionally, the program has sent two new volunteers to train in pistol and rifle disciplines and sent several teen coaches to training as well. Plans are in place to send even more teens and adults to training in the spring to support the continued growth of the program.