HerUpland

Feather Foundation

HerUpland Feather Foundation

Introduction:

HerUpland Feather Foundation – a beacon of support and solidarity within the HerUpland community. Born from the spirit of camaraderie and conservation, our foundation is dedicated to uplifting those who face hurdles in their quest to embrace the upland lifestyle and sporting traditions.

At the core of our mission, we stand committed to empowering women and youth. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to explore, learn, and thrive in the great outdoors, particularly within the uplands that offer unique challenges and rewards. Through donations of upland feathers and pelts, and the tireless efforts of our volunteers who transform these into artful creations, we fund and foster programs that break down barriers. Whether it’s providing training, resources, or mentorship, our goal is to ensure that the path to pursuing upland goals is accessible to all, especially those who have traditionally been underserved in these fields.

Our Story:

The inspiration for the HerUpland Feather Foundation took flight from a simple, yet profound realization: the fields, forests, and birds that grace our uplands are more than a sporting ground—they’re a powerful source of community and personal growth. This foundation sprang to life from the passion of women hunters who saw the untapped potential in the feathers and pelts that were part of their harvest. They envisioned a circle of giving that begins with the ethical harvest of these resources and culminates in supporting others in their outdoor endeavors.

United by a shared love for the uplands, women from all corners of the country began to contribute, turning the act of donating feathers and pelts into a nationwide movement of solidarity and support. This community-driven approach has been the beating heart of the foundation, illustrating the remarkable things that can happen when we come together for a common cause. The Feather Foundation is more than a charity; it is a testament to the power of a community united by a shared vision of conservation, craftsmanship, and the unwavering belief that the outdoors should be accessible to everyone.

Get Involved

Crafting with a Cause:

The HerUpland Feather Foundation harnesses the skills and creativity of its volunteers to craft a variety of items that reflect the beauty of the uplands and the spirit of conservation. Here are some of the projects our volunteers dedicate their time and talents to:

Hat Bands: Utilizing a mix of feathers from upland birds, volunteers create unique hat bands that serve as a stylish nod to the traditions of upland hunting. These bands are crafted to fit a variety of hat styles, providing a rustic yet elegant accessory for any outdoor enthusiast.

Brooches: The delicate structure of feathers lends itself to the creation of intricate brooches. Each piece is carefully assembled, often combining feathers of different textures and colors to make a statement piece that stands out on any garment.

Earrings: Feather earrings are a favorite project among our volunteers. Lightweight and versatile, these earrings can range from subtle to bold, accommodating a variety of fashion tastes. They are crafted to display various color schemes.

Ornaments: Volunteers also channel their artistry into making ornaments that celebrate the upland seasons and the natural beauty of the birds. These ornaments can adorn Christmas trees, mantles, or serve as year-round decorations that bring a touch of wilderness into the home.

Educational Materials: Aside from wearable art, volunteers also help in creating educational materials that showcase different feather types, their functions, and the species of upland birds they come from. These materials are used in workshops and events to raise awareness about bird conservation and hunting ethics.

All these projects are not only a means of raising funds for the foundation’s causes but also serve as educational tools, conversation starters, and symbols of the commitment to nurturing and preserving the upland tradition. Through these hands-on efforts, volunteers play a pivotal role in furthering the foundation’s mission while engaging in meaningful craftsmanship.

Upcoming Events:

At this time, we are only able to sell projects in-person. You can find us at the following upcoming events:

  1. Missoula Holiday MADE Fair: Dec 10 from 9am – 5pm at Adams Center, Missoula, MT
  2. Pheasant Fest: March 1-4, 2024 at Denny Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls, SD
Booth

Support Us

Donation Information:

Materials We Accept:

  • Upland bird feathers and pelts are welcomed, with a special interest in those from game birds such as pheasant, quail, grouse, partridge, and turkeys.
  • We seek materials that are in good condition, clean, and suitable for crafting into our various projects.

Materials We Cannot Accept:

  • It is important to note that we cannot accept feathers or pelts from migratory birds, as the sale of these items is prohibited under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.
  • We do not accept pen-raised, game farm, or preserve hunt birds. 

How to Donate:

  1. Prepare Your Materials:

    • Please clean the feathers and pelts before sending. For feathers, remove any debris or dirt and for pelts, ensure they are properly dried and preserved.
  2. Package Your Donation:

    • Securely package your materials to prevent damage during transit. Include a note with your contact information and any details about the feathers and pelts you are donating.
  3. Ship Your Package:

    • Our volunteer makers are located around the US, please email us at Team@HerUpland.com for more information on where to send your donations. If you would like to be reimbursed for shipping cost, please include your venmo or paypal account info.
  4. Legal Compliance:

    • For legal compliance, include a written statement within your package certifying that the feathers and pelts are not from migratory or endangered species and that they were ethically harvested.
  5. Contact Us:

    • If you are unsure about the suitability of your materials, or have questions regarding the donation process, please reach out to us via email at Team@HerUpland.com before sending your items.

Your contributions are invaluable to the foundation’s endeavors. By donating, you are not only supporting our mission but also contributing to a larger movement of conservation and sustainable practices. We thank you for your generosity and for being an integral part of our community’s effort to make a positive impact.

Volunteer Opportunities:

If you’re interested in contributing your time and creativity as a feather project maker for the HerUpland Feather Foundation, we welcome your enthusiasm! Becoming a project maker is a rewarding experience that allows you to directly support our cause while indulging in the art of craftsmanship. Here’s how you can get involved:

Becoming a Feather Project Maker:

  1. Express Interest:

    • Contact us via email at Team@HerUpland.com with the subject line “Feather Project Maker Inquiry.” Please include a brief introduction about yourself and why you are interested in joining our team of crafters.
  2. Skills and Experience:

    • While experience in crafting is beneficial, it is not a requirement. We welcome individuals of all skill levels and are happy to provide training and resources to get you started.
  3. Receive Materials and Instructions:

    • Once you’ve joined our team, we will provide you with the necessary materials and detailed instructions for making various feather-based crafts.
  4. Create at Your Own Pace:

    • As a volunteer, you have the flexibility to create from the comfort of your own home and on a schedule that works for you. There is no pressure—just the joy of creating!
  5. Join a Community:

    • You’ll be part of a vibrant community of like-minded individuals passionate about conservation, craftsmanship, and supporting women and youth in the uplands.

The Volunteering Experience:

As a volunteer project maker, you’ll have the chance to:

  • Develop New Skills:

    • Learn the intricacies of working with feathers and pelts, including techniques in preservation,  and crafting.
  • Foster Creativity:

    • Allow your creativity to flourish as you design and craft unique pieces that carry meaning and purpose.
  • Make a Difference:

    • Every piece you create helps raise funds for our cause, directly impacting the lives of women and youth in the upland community.
  • Connect with Nature:

    • Engage with the natural materials in a way that fosters a deeper appreciation for wildlife and conservation efforts.
  • Gain a Sense of Community:

    • Joining our team means becoming part of a supportive network that shares your values and passions.

We cherish the contributions of our volunteers and believe that their dedication shines through every handcrafted piece. If you’re ready to take on a fulfilling role that combines artistry with altruism, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can continue to build a foundation that stands strong in support of our uplands and those who cherish them.

Our Pledge

Ethical Harvesting:

The HerUpland Feather Foundation is deeply committed to the principle of ethical harvesting. We ensure that every feather used in our projects is sourced from birds taken by responsible hunters who are steadfast in their respect for wildlife and the environment. Here’s how we reinforce this message and uphold ethical hunting practices:

Ethical Harvesting Commitment:

  • Respect for Wildlife: Our contributors are hunters who practice fair chase principles, taking only shots that ensure a quick and humane harvest. This respect extends beyond the hunt, as they utilize as much of the bird as possible, honoring the life and the sustenance it provides.

  • Conservation Compliance: The women who contribute to our foundation follow all state and federal wildlife regulations, including hunting seasons and bag limits. These laws are in place to ensure the sustainability of wildlife populations and the ecosystems they inhabit.

  • Habitat Preservation: Contributors are also engaged in habitat conservation efforts. They understand that maintaining healthy upland ecosystems is essential for the future of the species they hunt and for the balance of our natural world.

  • Education and Mentorship: Our hunters are advocates for education, often involved in mentoring new hunters about the importance of ethical practices in the field, including the safe and responsible handling of firearms and the importance of non-wasteful utilization of harvested game.

  • Support for Wildlife Management: By participating in regulated hunting, our contributors support wildlife management efforts funded by hunting licenses and fees. These funds are crucial for conservation programs that protect the habitats and health of upland bird populations.

Our Pledge:

We pledge that all feathers are ethically harvested by women who not only hunt but do so with a profound commitment to the stewardship of the land and the species that inhabit it. Our foundation’s ethos is built on the foundation of sustainable and ethical outdoor practices. Every item crafted and sold by the HerUpland Feather Foundation carries within it this pledge, ensuring that our customers and supporters are part of a cycle that respects and preserves the natural beauty and integrity of our uplands.

Contact Us

Stay Connected:

Email:

  • For general inquiries and information about donations: Team@HerUpland.com
  • To become a volunteer feather project maker: Team@HerUpland.com with the subject “Feather Project Maker Inquiry”

Mailing List:

  • To stay updated with the latest news, events, and volunteer opportunities, we invite you to join our mailing list. Subscribe Now

We are always eager to connect with individuals who share our passion for the uplands and the traditions it holds. Whether you have questions, need more information, or want to contribute in any way, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your support and curiosity fuel our mission, and we are here to provide you with the information you need to become an active participant in our cause. Join us in our journey to make a meaningful impact in upland conservation and community support.

Important Notices:

When engaging with the HerUpland Feather Foundation, whether as a donor, volunteer, or supporter, please be mindful of the following legal disclaimers and ethical statements:

Legal Disclaimers:

  1. Compliance with Hunting Laws: All donated feathers and pelts must be collected in strict accordance with local, state, and federal wildlife and hunting regulations.

  2. Prohibition on Migratory Birds: In adherence to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, we do not accept or utilize feathers from migratory bird species. It is the donor’s responsibility to ensure that all donated materials comply with this act.

  3. Use of Donations: Donated materials may be used in various crafts and educational materials. By donating, you grant the HerUpland Feather Foundation the right to use these materials for such purposes.

  4. Sales and Proceeds: Handcrafted items made from donated materials are sold to support the foundation’s causes. The foundation does not profit from these sales; all proceeds are reinvested into our conservation and educational programs, and providing opportunities for women and youth in the uplands.

Ethical Statements:

  • Ethical Harvesting: We stand by the ethical harvesting of all materials used in our projects. This includes the humane and legal taking of game, and the respectful use of the resources provided by each harvest.

  • Environmental Stewardship: The foundation is committed to environmental stewardship and promotes the sustainable management of upland ecosystems.

  • Transparency and Honesty: We pledge to operate with transparency and honesty in all our activities, from how we source materials to how we distribute funds raised.

  • Respect for Wildlife: We hold a deep respect for wildlife and are dedicated to the conservation of the species and habitats that make upland sports possible.

By participating in the HerUpland Feather Foundation’s programs, you acknowledge and agree to these terms, ensuring that our collective efforts to support women and youth in upland pursuits are conducted responsibly and ethically.

Girls getting together, Learning together

Come Join Us in the Field

HerUpland

34059 Sheep Camp Rd.
Bonner, MT 59823

501c3 tax-exempt nonprofit
Federal Tax ID Number:
88-1817113