A man in a wheelchair is covered in camo, holding a bow, while participating in an inclusive archery hunt.

The Inclusive Archery Hunt brings veterans and hunters with disabilities to Touch of Nature’s 3,400-acre property. (Photo provided)

November 09, 2026

SIU’s Touch of Nature hosts Inclusive Archery Hunt for veterans, hunters with disabilities

by Maxbiya English

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s experiential learning facility, hosts the Inclusive Archery Hunt for veterans and hunters with disabilities Nov. 12-15. Organizers say the event remains the largest inclusive deer hunt in Illinois, with 43 people registered this year.

A deer camp built for access

Hunt participants will have exclusive use of Touch of Nature’s 3,400 acres of land. Public mountain bike trails are closed during the hunt weekend. Hunters are encouraged to bring a helper and their own gear. Volunteers are also on hand to sight-in bows and help with whatever else the participants need. Extra bows and supplies are available for those just getting into the sport.

After the hunt, volunteers process the deer on site and donate part of their own harvest — ensuring every hunter leaves with venison to take home.

Media availability

Reporters, photographers and news crews may cover the event at the following time:

  • Thursday, Nov. 12, at Freeberg Hall in Camp 2. Hunters gather for a kickoff dinner and safety meeting starting at 5:30 p.m. Media should arrive by 5 p.m. to set up for photos, video and interviews.

Partners behind the hunt

The National Wild Turkey Federation’s Illinois Wheelin’ Sportsmen program partners on the event, with Michael Howie serving as the NWTF’s hunt coordinator. Since 2000, Wheelin’ Sportsmen has helped people with mobility impairments take part in hunting and shooting sports.

This year, the hunt also teams up with Disabled American Veterans women’s chapters for the first time to encourage more female veterans with disabilities to participate.

Additional details

To learn more about the hunt or arrange a visit at a different time, contact Rockette Jaros, outdoor education and inclusion coordinator, at rockette.jaros@siu.edu or 618-453-3954.