We’re honored to share that our Virginia Projects have been awarded a grant through the 2025 Virginia Wildlife Grant Program, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and the Wildlife Foundation of Virginia.
The Virginia Wildlife Grant Program supported The Mayfly Project’s two Virginia sites, allowing us to serve 18 youth in foster care through fly fishing and conservation-based mentoring. With funding for gear and safety equipment, TMP provided1:1 mentor support, enabling youth to learn fly fishing skills successfully, with 100% of participants reporting increased self-sufficiency and safe experiences on the water.
Grant funds also supported conservation gear and our specialized curriculum, helping our mentees build awareness of their role in wildlife conservation, with the majority reporting a stronger understanding of conservation efforts. By allowing youth to keep their gear and by involving foster families and a strong mentor team, mentees reported a greater sense of belonging in the outdoor recreation community and a commitment to continuing to fish.
We are thankful for the DWR’s partnership and their drive to reach their R3 and Inclusive Excellence goals by increasing outdoor participation, expanding access, and helping foster youth experience new fishing locations and develop skills that support long-term engagement in Virginia’s natural resources.