The name POLESTAR means ‘centrally focused”! The North Star (Polaris) is the centrally located star in the northern hemisphere — and therefore is known as our pole star. As a Christian organization we want to point to our spiritual pole star, Jesus Christ. Having selected the North Star as a representation of the cross, our “centrally focused mission.”

As our mission statement highlights, we are dedicated to teaching youth essential life skills and guiding them to discover the true meaning of life. We achieve this through outdoor sports and activities, particularly hunting and fishing. At POLESTAR OUTDOORS, we believe that becoming a good and ethical sportsman requires learning techniques that enhance both success and enjoyment. Moreover, we encourage mentors and students to embrace their role in nature by applying Judeo-Christian principles to conservation practices, the ethical use of resources, and a deep appreciation for wildlife.

Mentors are selected by the directors of the program. They must go through evaluations as far as hunting and fishing skills and knowledge of the laws, willingness and ability to contribute to the activity they are involved in (e.g. provide transportation, use of personal equipment, such as fishing poles, shotguns, rifle, etc.). Further they are required to sign an authorization for a complete background check. The final step is to check with appropriate clergy to see if there are any known reasons why a potential mentor should not be authorized to work with students.

Our program is primarily designed to accommodate students who have no other avenue to enter the outdoor recreation world, however, we do not limit this! Basically, any student who wants to enter the program is allowed (provided there are enough mentors). The student applies by filling our student application and liability release form which must be signed by a parent or guardian, and they must also show that they have all necessary state permits to do the activity requested. Many of the students have not had the opportunity to obtain field skills and/or state permits, so we can assist through this process. They must demonstrate the willingness to learn! POLESTAR OUTDOORS does have a Hunter Safety Course authorized by Wyoming Game and Fish Department. If a student desires to hunt, they must accompany their mentor two or three time before going into the field. This is required to demonstrate safe and proficient use of a firearm.

POLESTAR OUTDOORS reserves the right to remove any student participant for behavior deemed inappropriate. Ensuring the absolute safety of all participants is our top priority. Any violation of safety protocols will result in the removal of the student, a decision made by the Program Director with input from a mentor. Similarly, mentors may also be dismissed from the program “without cause. "Every student entrusted to POLESTAR OUTDOORS is managed with utmost safety, respect, and professionalism. All mentors serve at the discretion of the directors. For the record, no student or mentor has been removed to date.

POLESTAR OUTDOORS has a program where deserving families are identified and are provided unwanted game meat. For many students this is a great way of getting involved in this charitable effort and provide to those less fortunate. Please check local laws and restrictions before donating game meat.