From the Field to the Forest: Clay Shoot Raises Funds for Connecticut Scouting

Each year, supporters of Scouting in Connecticut gather for a unique and exhilarating event: the Connecticut Rivers Sporting Clay Shoot at the prestigious Orvis Sandanona Shooting Grounds. But what exactly is a clay shoot fundraiser—and why has it become such a powerful way to support youth programs?

A clay shoot fundraiser is a sporting event where participants test their marksmanship by shooting at clay targets launched into the air or across the ground. These clay discs mimic the flight patterns of birds or small game, offering a fun and challenging experience for shooters of all skill levels. The course typically includes multiple stations, each presenting different angles and speeds to keep things exciting.

But this isn’t just about sport—it’s about support. Participants, sponsors, and donors come together to raise funds that directly benefit Scouting programs across Connecticut. Entry fees, sponsorships, raffles, and auctions all contribute to the cause, helping provide outdoor adventures, leadership training, and character-building experiences for local youth.

Held at Orvis Sandanona, one of the oldest permitted shooting clubs in the country, the event blends tradition, community, and philanthropy. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a first-time participant, the Clay Shoot offers a welcoming atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and a chance to make a meaningful impact.

In the end, every clay broken is a step toward building stronger futures for Connecticut’s Scouts—one shot at a time. On Friday, we gathered at the stunning Orvis Sandanona Shooting Grounds for a day that was more than just sport; it was a celebration of community, leadership, and the spirit of scouting. The 2025 Connecticut Rivers Council Sporting Clay Shoot Fundraiser brought together passionate supporters to raise funds that will help send kids to camp and strengthen our beloved scouting camp programs and facilities across the Connecticut Rivers Council. This campaign allows us to serve more youth and to give each child the opportunity to explore the great outdoors, try their hands at new skills, forge new friendships, and grow leadership skills. These camps include Mattatuck Scout Reservation in Plymouth, June Norcross Scout Reservation in Ashford, CT, Camp Workcoeman in New Hartford & Camp Barbour in Norfolk.

We couldn’t have asked for better weather. The skies were clear, the air was crisp, and the grounds were absolutely breathtaking. Nature seemed to be cheering us on as teams took to the course, sharing laughs, stories, and a common purpose: to make camp possible for every scout.

The event was a powerful reminder of what happens when mission-driven organizations and generous companies come together. The networking was phenomenal—leaders from across industries showed up not just to shoot, but to support. The teamwork and camaraderie on display were inspiring, reflecting the very values we instill in our scouts: leadership, service, and unity.

We are deeply grateful to the companies and individuals who made this day possible. Your presence, your generosity, and your belief in the power of scouting mean the world to us. Thanks to you, more youth will experience the magic of camp—where friendships are forged, confidence is built, and memories are made.

To see the joy and energy from the day, check out our photo album on Flickr. If you took photos during the event, feel free to share and tag us on social media; we’d love to celebrate you! https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCtgwa.

We want to extend a special thank you to Jared Perlin from Pratt & Whitney for serving as the volunteer Chairperson for this event. Each year, he hosts a fantastic event and brings together incredible individuals from various industries across the state. From all of us at the Connecticut Rivers Council, thank you for helping us build a brighter future for our scouts. Camp4All is more than a campaign; it’s a promise, and on Friday, you helped us keep it.

Learn more about how you can support scouting through our new Camp4All Campaign: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/EU_7NA?vid=1h6kw6

Want to participate next year? Reach out to Jason.Messier@scouting.org to learn more.

What is a Clayshoot Fundraiser?

Each year, supporters of Scouting in Connecticut gather for a unique and exhilarating event: the Connecticut Rivers Sporting Clay Shoot at the prestigious Orvis Sandanona Shooting Grounds. But what exactly is a clay shoot fundraiser, and why has it become such a powerful way to support youth programs?

A clay shoot fundraiser is a sporting event where participants test their marksmanship by shooting at clay targets launched into the air or across the ground. These clay discs mimic the flight patterns of birds or small game, offering a fun and challenging experience for shooters of all skill levels. The course typically includes multiple stations, each presenting different angles and speeds to keep things exciting. Guns & ammo are included.

We start the day off with a luxurious breakfast and finish with a fulfilling lunch!

But this isn’t just about sport—it’s about support. Participants, sponsors, and donors come together to raise funds that directly benefit Scouting programs across Connecticut. Entry fees, sponsorships, raffles, and auctions all contribute to supporting scouting, helping provide outdoor adventures, leadership training, and character-building experiences for local youth.

Held at Orvis Sandanona, one of the oldest permitted shooting clubs in the country, the event blends tradition, community, and philanthropy. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a first-time participant, the Clay Shoot offers a welcoming atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and a chance to make a meaningful impact.

Learn more, Jason.Messier@scouting.org

Learn more about how you can support scouting through our new Camp4All Campaign: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/EU_7NA?vid=1h6kw6