Outdoors ministry sets sights on range

A local ministry that instructs young people in outdoor life, including hunting, fishing, archery and camping, has been given a $7,500 contribution by Unity in the Community.

Unity president Linda Fuhrman presented Dennis Pawlowski, founder of Trinity Special Sportsman Ministry, with a check Aug. 5 at Bailey's Outdoor Products.

"We are pleased to assist Dennis in his effort to help young people find a way to enjoy the outdoors with good supervision and guidance," Fuhrman said.

Pawlowski, a veteran Plant City police officer, originally founded Trinity to help children with disabilities and their families.

"Over the last five years, we have opened the ministry to serve all youths, offering archery clinics in partnerships with schools, churches and YMCA and others. The organization's mission statement, 'sharing the message of Jesus Christ by providing a quality outdoor experience such as hunting and fishing' tells it all," Pawlowski said.

He is trying to raise money for an archery range and wooded walk on 30 acres in the Durant area, said Fuhrman, whose organization helps charities and the needy in the Plant City area.

"With this donation Unity is providing, he will be able to develop the facility," she said. "With a facility such as this one envisioned by Dennis in operation, it will greatly benefit the Plant City community."

Trinity is staffed by volunteers. A small fee is charged for events that covers the cost of targets and insurance.

Pawlowski said he was thankful and appreciative for the support from Unity and other organizations in the area.

"I couldn't afford to do this alone," Pawlowski said. "Buck Masters, Bailey's Outdoors and the YMCA have all been instrumental in helping this ministry to succeed and grow."

For information, go to trinityspecialsportsman .org or call Pawlowski at (813) 389-3678.

Fuhrman can be reached at (813) 752-2727.

ARCHERY CLINIC

WHAT: Registration for an archery clinic by Trinity Special Sportsman Ministry

WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m. today

WHERE: Bailey's Outdoors Products shop, 201 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

CLASS DATES: Mondays Sept. 13 through Nov.1

COST: $25 per shooter; parents are welcome to participate with their children

INFORMATION: (813) 389-3678 or www.trinityspecialspotsman.org