Outdoor Youth Exploration Academy
OYEA!
A Guide to Leadership Excellence
Our Mission
Outdoor Youth Exploration Academy - OYEA! is dedicated to guiding and empowering young individuals by fostering the cultivation of essential life and leadership skills while nurturing a profound understanding of environmental responsibility through engaging outdoor sporting experiences. At OYEA!, our fundamental aim is to enlighten urban youth about their pivotal roles as keepers of our environment while imparting enduring outdoor recreational expertise. We take pride in organizing community cleanups that instill a sense of communal pride and advocate for the safeguarding of our urban waterways. Moreover, our initiatives encompass comprehensive training in fishing, archery, and target shooting with air rifles, disciplines often overlooked in urban settings but which hold the potential for college scholarships and participation in prestigious Olympic sporting events.
College Scholarship & Career Opportunities
At OYEA!, we offer urban youth the chance to excel in fishing, archery, and target shooting—skills that can lead to college scholarships and open doors to prestigious university teams. Colleges like Michigan State, Vincennes University, and Indiana State have competitive archery teams and are always looking for talented individuals to join their ranks.
Beyond college opportunities, OYEA! introduces participants to exciting career paths, including becoming a Game Warden with the Department of Natural Resources, pursuing a career as a professional fisherman, or even working as a biologist. These fields offer meaningful and fulfilling employment, connecting passion with profession.
Classes
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Archery
Archery is an ancient sport and skill involving the use of a bow to propel arrows towards a target. It demands precision, focus, and control as archers aim to hit specific marks with accuracy.
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Fishing
Fishing is a timeless pursuit that combines relaxation, skill, and adventure. Whether casting a line into a tranquil pond or braving the open sea, fishing offers a unique connection to nature.
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Hunting
Hunting is an ancient practice that involves tracking, pursuing, and capturing or killing wild animals for food, recreation, or conservation purposes. It has been essential for human survival throughout history.
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Nature Walks
Nature Walks provide a peaceful, immersive outdoor experience, combining exploration, relaxation, and education. Stroll through trails, practice conservation stewardship, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Spotlight: Thomas Adams - Indiana Conservation Officer
Thomas Adams joined OYEA! at just 10 years old, growing up on the west side of an under-resourced community where challenges like low graduation rates were common. Recognizing the need for a positive influence, his parents enrolled him in OYEA! to keep him on the right path. It was through fishing that Thomas found peace and focus. However, life’s pressures led to a misstep, resulting in him leaving the program. But his passion for fishing never waned. Shortly after, he went on a fishing trip with his parents, where he proudly caught a 14-½ inch crappie. His excitement attracted the attention of a DNR officer, who stopped to capture the moment.
That pivotal experience, combined with his time in OYEA!, set Thomas on the path to becoming a Conservation Officer. In 2020, Thomas made history as the first Black Indiana DNR Conservation Officer. OYEA! Director Joe King was overjoyed upon learning of Thomas’s achievement.
Today, Thomas proudly serves his community, fulfilling his dream job and giving back as an instructor for the Dirty Dozen Fishing Club, the parent organization of OYEA!. He is committed to passing on his knowledge to the next generation.
"I want to make a difference and be a pillar in my community. I am a living representation that this can be possible!"
~ Thomas Adams
Contact Us to Learn More About OYEA!
Our team is ready to provide information about our classes, schedules, and enrollment processes. Feel free to contact us with any inquiries or for any assistance. We look forward to hearing from you!
We also offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for those who wish to make a positive impact on our community. Whether you're interested in mentoring, assisting with events, or supporting our programs, there's a role for everyone.
Thank you to our partners & sponsors
We sincerely thank our partners and sponsors for making OYEA! possible. Your support empowers urban youth with essential skills and opportunities, shaping their futures and inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders. We appreciate your commitment and look forward to continuing this impactful journey together.
