When Thomas Township Parks and Recreation wanted to introduce a program that could engage residents of all ages, they turned to USA Archery. With a shared goal of making archery accessible and enjoyable for the entire community, the partnership quickly aimed at building something special.
Since launching their first program in 2011, the department has seen archery grow into one of its most popular offerings, fostering new opportunities for youth and families alike.
Below, John Corriveau, the director at Thomas Township Parks and Recreation, shares why the department chose to partner with USA Archery, the positive impact it’s had on participants and how the organization’s ongoing support has helped their program thrive.
How long have you been a customer of USA Archery?
In 2010, I became a Level 1 instructor through a program hosted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Archery Trade Association and USA Archery. We started an Explore Bowhunting program in 2011.
Why did you decide to partner with USA Archery?
We’re always looking to find new and exciting programs for our community as a parks department. I’ve been shooting archery since I was 12, so this opportunity to work with USA Archery was perfect. USA Archery does so many programs to make archery accessible for kids and adults; it fits perfect with parks and recreation departments.
Did you have a specific problem you were looking to solve?
We always struggle to find programs that can reach a broad age range and archery did that for us. Kids can shoot with their parents and grandparents — it’s such a great program for families to enjoy together.
What are the benefits to your business as a result of this partnership?
As a parks department, we can now offer programs that are not only beneficial to a large variety of people and kids, but something we can do at events, parks and indoors during winter.
What are the benefits to your members as a result of this partnership?
Our Junior Olympic Archery Development Program is very large with over 75 kids each year. The tournaments USA Archery offers both statewide, regionally and nationally give the kids a lot of great opportunities to grow in the sport.
Have you been pleasantly surprised by working with USA Archery in any way?
The relationship that we’ve formed is pretty special. I can call or email USA Archery and get a response or a phone back no worries. They offer great support, and if you need something they help you find the right contacts to achieve your goals.
What else can you tell other rec center professionals about the benefits of working with USA Archery?
USA Archery is a great support team for your program. They offer grants and contracts and truly want you to succeed. They have programs that you can follow, and they want you to be successful. We’ve been successful because of the support from USA Archery and the archery industry — it’s such a great family.
To learn more, head to USA Archery’s website here.
