A Frederick, Oklahoma-based nonprofit is breaking down financial barriers that prevent young people from participating in competitive shooting sports, thanks to an innovative partnership that turns firearms safety education into youth program funding.
Red Dirt Shooting Sports Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization founded by Gary Parks, has developed a unique funding model through collaboration with Texas License to Carry online class providers. Every enrollment in these LTC courses generates proceeds that flow directly back to support youth athletes in archery, air rifle, smallbore rifle, and other shooting disciplines.
The partnership addresses a critical need in youth sports accessibility. Many talented young athletes face financial obstacles that prevent them from pursuing competitive shooting sports, where equipment costs, competition fees, and travel expenses can quickly become prohibitive. Through this funding mechanism, the nonprofit provides loaner equipment, covers competition entry fees, and assists with travel costs, ensuring that interested youth can participate regardless of their family’s economic situation.
“When we invest in these kids, we’re investing in our community’s future. Shooting sports teach responsibility, focus, and confidence that carry over into every part of life,” Parks explains.
The impact of this approach is evident in the program’s growth and achievements. What began as a small mentorship initiative has expanded to include more than a dozen recreational participants and a competitive team that regularly places in state and national events. Emma Sheffield, Parks’ granddaughter, exemplifies the program’s success with multiple podium finishes at ASA competitions while demonstrating the leadership qualities the organization seeks to develop in all participants.
Parents of participating youth emphasize the program’s broader impact beyond marksmanship skills. “Red Dirt Shooting Sports gave my child not just marksmanship skills, but confidence and lifelong friends. It’s more than a sport—it’s a family and a support system,” one parent shared.
The youth shooting sports organization maintains partnerships with established programs including 4-H, S3DA, ASA, NFAA, CMP, and USA Archery, creating clear pathways for young athletes to advance from local competitions to national championships. These affiliations provide structure and legitimacy while ensuring participants receive training that meets the highest standards in competitive shooting sports.
Beyond competition results, the program emphasizes character development, safe firearm practices, and outdoor conservation ethics. Participants learn discipline, focus, and responsibility through hands-on coaching across multiple disciplines including air pistol, muzzleloader, hunting skills, and archery. These lessons extend far beyond the shooting range, helping young people develop confidence and leadership skills that benefit them throughout their lives.
The Texas LTC online class partnership represents a sustainable funding model that other youth sports organizations might consider replicating. By connecting adult firearms education with youth program support, the nonprofit creates a continuous revenue stream that reduces dependence on traditional fundraising methods while promoting responsible gun ownership across generations.
As Red Dirt Shooting Sports continues expanding its reach and impact, the organization demonstrates how innovative funding approaches can remove barriers to youth participation in specialized sports. The model ensures that financial constraints don’t prevent talented young athletes from developing their skills, building character, and potentially pursuing collegiate or professional opportunities in shooting sports.
Community members interested in supporting the next generation of responsible shooters and outdoor enthusiasts can contribute by enrolling in Texas LTC online classes through the partnership or making direct donations to the nonprofit. Each contribution helps provide equipment, coaching, and competition opportunities for youth who might otherwise lack access to these transformative experiences.