Whitetails Unlimited – Our Story

  • We support the timeless tradition of deer hunting.
  • We support hunter rights and the Second Amendment.
  • Our cooperative projects for education with other conservation organizations is part of our fund-raising mission.

By Megan Richard 

Communications Director – Editor, Whitetails Unlimited Magazine

Founded in 1982, Whitetails Unlimited is a national nonprofit conservation organization that has remained true to its mission and made great strides in conservation. We have earned a reputation as the nation’s premier organization, dedicating our resources to the betterment of whitetail deer and their environment.

Our mission is to raise funds in support of educational programs, wildlife habitat enhancement and acquisition, and preservation of the hunting tradition and shooting sports for future generations. Since our beginning, we have spent over $147 million on projects supporting this mission, including research, assistance to wildlife agencies, habitat enhancement/acquisition, scholarships, educational materials, hunter safety/education, anti-poaching measures, and cooperative projects with other conservation organizations. This work has made a significant impact, inspiring hope for the future of our wildlife and the preservation of our hunting tradition.

A family of deer resting during mid-day. James Monteleone Photo

Whitetails Unlimited has four programs that support our mission and guide the allocation of our grants. As a part of our Preserving the Hunting Tradition Program, Whitetails Unlimited supports hunter rights and the Second Amendment. In addition, education is a top priority, and our DEER (Developing Education & Environmental Resources) Program comprises organizational initiatives and activities that introduce youth and their families to the great outdoors.

Wildlife habitat, hunter access, and the reduction of poaching are also priorities of Whitetails Unlimited. Our HOPE (Habitat Options & Planned Enhancement) for Wildlife Program initiatives creates partnerships with state and federal agencies to acquire land, improve and maintain critical habitat for deer and other wildlife, and increase public hunting opportunities.

Last, as an advocate for the preservation of the shooting sports, Whitetails Unlimited is helping build the next generation of shooting sports enthusiasts by supporting public archery and firearm ranges through our Staying on Target Program.

Spring Grove Trap Team grant recipient.

There are a handful of ways you can support Whitetails Unlimited and continue the hunting tradition in your neck of the woods. By becoming a Whitetails Unlimited member and receiving our members-only Whitetails Unlimited Magazine, you’re not just joining a community, you’re becoming an integral part of a distinguished American legacy…the timeless tradition of deer hunting!

If you are interested in doing more, consider volunteering at or attending a local WTU event. These events are not just about fundraising, they’re about coming together with like-minded friends and family, feeling connected, and making a difference in your community. Even better, you can continue to make a difference by partnering with Whitetails Unlimited to start your own local chapter, bringing a WTU event to your community and raising funds for a local nonprofit organization.

To learn more about Whitetails Unlimited, including all the ways you can get involved—from becoming a member to volunteering at a fundraising event, to all the ways you can donate—and to find a local WTU event near you, visit https://www.whitetailsunlimited.com.

Adams County, Ohio – support event 2023.