WSF WORLD HEADQUARTERS-Cody, Wyoming USA – June 21, 2010. Despite the economic slowdown, and the challenging fundraising environment resulting from an anemic global economy, the Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF) funded $2,844,286 in conservation, education, research and advocacy programs during the 2009-2010 fiscal year which ends June 30, 2010.
“This is an incredible mission focus accomplishment during the most challenging times I’ve experienced in 20+ years professionally in this industry” Gray N. Thornton, the Foundation’s President and CEO stated. “Through the exceptional generosity and support of our members, supporters, convention exhibitors, donors and sponsors, the Foundation raised and gave away an incredible sum this past year towards our purpose of “Putting and Keeping Sheep on the Mountain.” In addition to this funding milestone, we also grew membership 100% to more than 10,100 members worldwide during these trying times.” Thornton added.
Of the $2.84+ million donated to mission programs during the year, contributions to state, provincial and tribal agencies through the sale of special permits and tags totaled $2,402,940. Proceeds from these funds support wildlife conservation and habitat improvement initiatives primarily benefiting wild sheep and other mountain ungulates and their habitat but also supports all wildlife. Funded industry support and advocacy programs totaled $191,250, and habitat restoration, improvement, acquisition and disease research funding totaled $174,333. The Foundation funded international wild sheep projects primarily in mid Asia totaling $68,273, and youth education programs totaling $7,490 to round out the $2,844,286 of on-the-ground projects, programs and initiatives funded during the year.
“Our annual convention is the principal funding medium for our mission work and combined with our direct donation and development initiatives, enabled the Foundation to direct this exceptional sum to mission programs this past year. We invite all hunters, anglers and conservationists to join us in Reno, Nevada February 9-12, 2011 for our 34th Annual Convention and Sporting Expo to help us continue our critical efforts for wild sheep, other wildlife, their wild lands and to promote those who hunt and enjoy them.” Gray Thornton stated.
The Wild Sheep Foundation, formerly the Foundation for North American Wild Sheep, was founded in 1977 by sheep and mountain hunting enthusiasts and conservationists. With a membership of more than 10,000 worldwide and a chapter network in North America, WSF is the premier advocate for wild sheep, wild goats, other mountain wildlife, and their habitat. Since forming in 1977, the Wild Sheep Foundation has raised and expended more than $75 million on conservation, education and mission advocacy programs in North America, Europe and Asia.
For more information on the 2011 annual convention, WSF’s many conservation and education programs, or to join as a member, please visit www.wildsheepfoundation.org or contact them at 720 Allen Avenue, Cody, Wyoming 82414 USA. Telephone 307-527-6261. Email info@wildsheepfoundation.org.
