Command Post Update
As we hit the midway point of August, I’m already looking ahead to September—the time when fall hunting seasons begin to open and many of us start preparing for long days outdoors. Our HHO team is hard at work submitting a variety of outdoor recreational activities for the fall, and I can’t wait to see them come together and get posted to our website.
We’re still working through a few learning curves with the trip registration system—making sure everyone can log in, register, and find the instructions they need. But overall, things are looking great organizationally.
I’ve also got a handful of fundraisers on the horizon, and one of my big priorities continues to be growing our volunteer pool. There’s truly a role for everyone—whether you’d like to help as field staff hosting a couple of trips a year, assist at events, or support behind the scenes with things like grant writing, accounting, or even contributing to our website blog. If your heart’s in it, we’ll find the right fit.
And last but not least—we’re excited to announce that our new HHO online store is being updated! Soon, you’ll be able to pre-order a wide variety of HHO clothing and gear. Stay tuned for the launch.
Field Report
This past weekend marked the 4th Annual BBQ Boot Camp in Eagle Bend, Minnesota. Early reports say it was another fantastic success, with professional competition barbecue teams once again sharing their knowledge and skills with HHO members. We’ll be sharing photos and stories soon, but for now, hats off to everyone who made it a memorable event.
Over in Stillwater, our second Vikings preseason tailgate at The Lumberjack was a little more low-key (as preseason games usually are), but the excitement is already building for the regular season. We’ll be tailgating at every Vikings home game this fall, and we can’t wait to make each one a true community celebration.
Lastly, a reminder about our HundredX fundraiser—every 30-second survey you complete earns HHO $1 or more. It’s a simple, quick way to support the mission, and it really adds up.
Mission Wins
We’ve had some great momentum this week:
- Grant Writing Support: We’re now working with a new volunteer grant writer, and we’ve also engaged a second grant writer to help advance our mission. This will give us a stronger foundation for funding growth in the months ahead.
- Hero Chronicles: We’re close to locking in our weekend airtimes in Minnesota! Once finalized, we’ll begin seeking sponsors and partners to support pre-production and commercial placement. More details are coming very soon.
- HHO Podcast: We’re starting to ramp up production for the Hometown Hero Outdoors Podcast and are actively looking for candidates to feature. Ideal guests include those with stories of outdoor adventures, a life of service in the military or first responder community, or experiences connected to mental health and personal journeys. A mix of these perspectives is powerful, but even just one makes for a great episode. If you know someone with a story worth telling, keep an eye out for our call for nominations.
- Community Partnerships: We’re honored to be working with the Brooklyn Park Police Federation Golf Tournament and grateful to be a recipient of funds raised at the event. On top of that, a group of friends in the Milaca/Princeton area is hosting a golf tournament to benefit HHO—an incredible show of grassroots support for our mission.
Recon & Intel
Looking ahead, here are some of the trips and events coming up across the HHO community:
Trips & Adventures
- Colorado: Sandhill crane hunt and a “Cast & Blast” combo trip.
- Minnesota: Two more Mille Lacs fishing launches with McQuoid’s, plus a trip to the Sturgeon Bay area for King Salmon.
- North Dakota: Buffalo hunt (North Dakota residents only) and a pheasant hunt.
- South Dakota: Large group fishing trip with 605 Outfitters.
- Texas: Legendary Harris Ranch hunt—this year with a few exciting changes.
Minnesota Events
- Vikings Game Day Tailgating – Every Vikings home game at The Lumberjack in Stillwater.
- Field of Bands – September, Stillwater area.
- Brooklyn Park Police Federation Golf Tournament – We’re helping run the event and honored to be a recipient of funds raised.
- Milaca/Princeton Golf Tournament – Organized by a group of friends passionate about supporting HHO.
All of this (and more) can be found on the Events tab of our website.
Call to Action – Get Involved
The truth is, there are far more people who need our help than we currently have the hands to reach—and that’s where you come in. HHO is always looking for passionate volunteers to join the mission. Whether it’s helping in the field, supporting events, or lending your skills behind the scenes, there’s a place for you on our team.
When you volunteer with HHO, you’re not just giving your time—you’re giving someone the chance to reset, reconnect, and heal through the outdoors.
We’ve made it easy to get started. Click the link below to sign up, and our Volunteer Coordinator, Kimberly, will reach out to connect you with opportunities that fit your skills and availability.
CT
