Monday, October 7, 2024 at 7:01 PM
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Disabled Outdoorsmen: Knocking down doors, for all abilities

Disabled Outdoorsmen: Knocking down doors, for all abilities

Disabled Outdoorsmen USA (DOUSA) is a beacon of hope and empowerment for individuals with disabilities.

As founder Weston Jenkins states, “Our main focus is to deliver an unforgettable experience that was not previously possible. Helping people take their minds off daily struggles is what drives us to serve you.”

A world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can revel in the beauty and thrill of the great outdoors without any barriers — this is the dream of Disabled Outdoorsmen USA (DOUSA), a nonprofit that is transforming lives and breaking down barriers to nature.

Jenkins launched the organization in 2017 while studying at Texas State University. A proud Boerne native, Weston’s deep-rooted passion for the outdoors, coupled with his genuine empathy for people with disabilities, distinguishes him as a true advocate for change. His lifelong dream of fostering equality and inclusion fuels his dedication to DOUSA.

The inspiration for DOUSA came from a deeply personal experience. Jenkins was touched during a hunting trip with his cousin T.J., who has Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy.

“T.J. is the main inspiration behind Disabled Outdoorsmen,” Weston said, his voice filled with emotion. “I want to give others like T.J. the chance to explore the outdoors and feel like they can do anything.”

Weston envisioned a world where disabilities are set aside, and people can fully engage with their loved ones in the beauty of nature. Alongside building DOUSA, Weston earned a bachelor’s degree in business marketing and sales and now excels as a ranch real estate agent at Texas Landmen.

DOUSA is more than an organization, he says, it’s a movement of transformation and hope. Unlike others that may focus narrowly on specific disabilities, DOUSA embraces a broad spectrum of abilities.

Whether it’s hunting, fishing, camping or hiking, DOUSA crafts unforgettable outdoor experiences that nourish the soul and uplift the spirit.

One recent participant described his journey as life-changing, discovering a new passion and a renewed purpose to help others in similar situations find

These connections often turn into lasting friendships and a sense of belonging within the DOUSA family.

Jenkins reflects with pride on the early days of DOUSA, recalling the first fundraising event, where a modest $20,000 was transformed into a powerful force for good. With unwavering support from a dedicated team of volunteers, Jenkin's vision received overwhelming love and enthusiasm.

Now in its fourth year, DOUSA’s banquet ranks fifth among the top 48 fundraisers in partnership with Valero’s Champions fore Charity.

With five chapters across the United States and dreams of expanding to every state, DOUSA’s impact continues to grow. The organization’s achievements, including the 2024 Hill Country Charity Ball Grant and a feature in the Fall 2024 issue of Texas Dove Hunters Magazine.

“Passion drives people to achieve goals they never thought possible. True heroes see beyond,” Jenkins says. Each participant’s journey is carefully planned to ensure a meaningful experience, with the team dedicated to providing the necessary accommodations for a successful adventure.

DOUSA is hosting the first-ever Disabled Youth Shed Hunt at Enchanted Springs Ranch on Oct. 12, 2024. The Shed Hunt invites 30 disabled youth to participate in a Texas-style “Easter egg” shed hunt, with support from local volunteers, the Boerne Fire Department, EMTs and Texas Parks and Wildlife.

As Jenkins states, “The outdoors has a healing capability that allows individuals to focus on what they have, what they love, and to show them that a disability doesn’t define the rest of their life.”


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