From Scholarship to Stewardship
Pacific Coordinator Ashley HiseyNot long ago, I was given the opportunity to attend my first Her Upland camp through a scholarship. What began as a chance to learn quickly became something much more meaningful. It opened the door to a community built on a shared passion for the outdoors, a commitment to conservation, and a dedication to investing in the next generation of hunters and conservationists.
From the moment I arrived, it was clear that Her Upland was supported by an incredible group of women. Their depth of knowledge, willingness to share it, and genuine enthusiasm for teaching were unlike anything I had experienced before. What impressed me most wasn’t just the quality of the instruction, but the way it was taught. We learned valuable skills and then immediately put them into practice in the field, with experienced mentors encouraging and guiding us every step of the way. These women don’t just teach. They empower you to leave with the confidence and ability to continue learning and growing on your own.
The people, both mentors and students, are what truly make Her Upland special. It felt different from any other hunting camp I had attended. There is something extraordinary about a group of women who are so passionate about the outdoors and so committed to sharing that passion with others. The encouragement, camaraderie, and genuine desire to see every participant succeed create an environment that is both welcoming and inspiring.
As time went on, I realized I didn’t just want to benefit from this organization. I wanted to help build it. That realization led me to become a volunteer with Her Upland.
Serving on the other side has given me an entirely new perspective. I’ve seen firsthand the countless hours of planning, coordination, and dedication that go into creating these experiences. More importantly, I’ve seen how impactful they are in introducing more women to hunting, strengthening conservation efforts, and building a community where lifelong friendships and mentorships are formed.
Even as a volunteer, I continue to learn at every event. I still leave feeling like a student, and that’s one of the things I value most. There is always something new to learn, another perspective to gain, or another skill to develop. Having the opportunity to grow while helping others discover the same passion is what makes volunteering so rewarding.
Today, instead of simply receiving the benefits of this community, I have the privilege of giving back by supporting events, encouraging new participants, and helping create the same life-changing opportunity that was once given to me. In many ways, my journey has come full circle. It serves as a reminder that one of the greatest ways to honor an opportunity is to help create it for someone else.