At National Land Realty, our team doesn’t just do land as a career; we live and breathe it. Across the country, many members of our team are making a meaningful impact and stepping into mentorship roles with youth-focused outdoor organizations. 

These programs, ranging from competitive shooting teams to faith-based wilderness ministries, provide young people with valuable life skills, community, and purpose. Here’s a closer look at how some of our team members are making a difference in the lives of tomorrow’s leaders!

Cory Bowes: Mentoring Through Ministry

Cory Bowes, Managing Broker of the Raleigh, NC office, volunteers with the Apex chapter of Truth in Nature, a Christian outdoor ministry for fatherless boys. The organization offers activities like fishing, hunting, camping, and even life skills like auto mechanics and tying a tie, all while integrating Biblical teachings. Their goal is to provide purpose and mentorship for boys lacking a consistent male role model.

Cory’s journey into volunteering began after his law enforcement career, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges facing so many fatherless boys in his community. “This is my opportunity to serve my local community, and I know my involvement has a positive impact on somebody else’s life,” he shared. “It’s a commitment to these kids and the community. We’re trying to build up a new generation with more of a purpose and commitment toward family as they get older.”

Todd Dye: Building Confidence With Clay Shooting

In 2019, Managing Broker Todd Dye noticed a lack of available shooting opportunities for his son in Pocatello, ID, leading him to found a youth shooting team affiliated with the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP). What started as a solution to bring the sport closer to home has evolved into a growing team of more than 20 young athletes, some of whom now compete nationally in trap, skeet, and sporting clays.

Todd emphasizes the team’s focus on safety and sportsmanship, noting, “It’s the sport where I’ve seen the best sportsmanship… kids and their families cheer each other on, even across teams. It’s really cool.” He also values how accessible the sport is: “You can participate from a wheelchair… and it’s something you can do for your entire life.” Beyond shooting, participants learn environmental responsibility and outdoor etiquette, setting them up for a lifetime of enjoyment and respect for the outdoors.

Mac Christian: Fly Fishing and Foster Youth

For Mac Christian, Chief Marketing Officer at NLR, fly fishing is more than a hobby; it’s an opportunity for mentorship. Mac volunteers with The Mayfly Project, a national nonprofit that pairs foster children with adult mentors for monthly fly-fishing outings during the fishing season. Each child is matched with a mentor for a year, allowing mentors to develop close personal relationships with the participants and impart their knowledge over the course of the season.

Mac became involved in 2023 and describes the experience as a highlight of his year. “Getting to teach these kids and connect with them is worth so much more than landing a monster trout,” he said. “It’s about more than just teaching them how to fish; it’s about teaching them patience, how to keep your chin up when you come home empty-handed, and appreciating the outdoors.”

Clint Flowers: Guiding Future Hunters

Clint Flowers, ALC and Managing Broker for NLR’s Gulf Coast office, lends his time and his land to the Hour-Glass Youth Deer Hunt hosted by the Bay Minette Police Department. The annual event selects youth aged 13–17 for a mentored deer hunting experience, based on academic performance. All expenses are covered, thanks to private and corporate donations, allowing kids from all backgrounds to participate.

Clint finds the experience deeply rewarding. “It’s been a very fulfilling experience working with the police department and these kids,” he shared. “I get to introduce hunting to young people who would otherwise never get the chance.” In 2024, 11 out of 15 participants successfully harvested their first deer, creating memories and skills that will last a lifetime.

By dedicating their time, energy, and expertise to youth-focused outdoor programs, these individuals are fostering confidence, resilience, and life skills in the next generation. 

Interested in learning more about youth group volunteer opportunities in your area? Get in touch with your local Land Professional today!