SCI Foundation’s “Donor Spotlight” series is dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributors and supporters of SCIF. Today, we are excited to feature Joel Swan, a true champion for SCIF. As the founder and owner of Champion Ranch, Joel has been a dedicated supporter of SCIF, a long-time member of SCI, and a regular exhibitor at the SCI Convention for many years.
We asked Joel some questions about his background, his passion for hunting, and his involvement with SCIF. Here are his responses:
Who introduced you to hunting or was it a path of self-discovery? My father initially introduced me to pheasant and deer hunting. I immediately fell in love.
Why do you hunt? I hunt for two primary reasons…#1 I love people and getting to travel and meet people from different cultures and learn about their ways of life has always intrigued me. #2 The outdoors is the greatest sanctuary on the planet. Being able to enjoy the peace and tranquility of where wildlife lives should never be taken for granted.
Who do you like to hunt with? Historically with friends and business associates…nowadays, there is nothing better then hunting with my children.
Who have you introduced to/mentored in hunting? Being in the outfitting business has allowed me the privilege to take many many many people on their first hunt. There is no greater joy in life then exposing the next generation to the hunting heritage I am so passionate about.
What does the term hunter/conservationist mean to you? Being a hunter is being a conservationist. In the future we will no longer be able to enjoy the marvel of wild things and wild places if we do not protect and conserve those resources.
How did you get involved with SCIF? As an exhibitor with SCI for two decades I have been aware of the good work that SCIF does. I initially became involved through the Beretta Gala.
What keeps you involved? Having faith in the team at SCIF and seeing first-hand the progress and di9erence SCIF is making year over year.
What do you see as SCI/SCIF’s primary roles in the community at large? SCI is the 2,000- pound gorilla that can pound it’s chest when things politically and scientifically need to get done. SCIF is the grassroots, boots on the ground, in the field seeing issues firsthand and helping with solutions.
When I bring up the idea of hunters giving back, what comes to mind? Bell Blue Bags.
What do you wish other people knew or understood about SCIF? That SCI and SCIF are not the same thing. They work together but are not the same thing.
Tell us why you would encourage others to become involved with SCIF? Because it is our responsibility to take care of what we have been blessed to enjoy for the next generation.
