By Troy Sweet, Director of Southwest Operations
This article is part of the Summer 2026 edition of the Volunteer Newsletter, a quarterly update meant to equip, empower and encourage RMEF volunteers. More articles are available on our dedicated Volunteer Newsletter page.
As we move toward fall, the Southwest Region continues to build momentum and is on track for another outstanding year of fundraising success. Thanks to the dedication and hard work of volunteers at the chapter level, the region is experiencing growth across multiple revenue categories. Strong grassroots engagement, disciplined budgeting and thoughtful event planning have all contributed to these positive results.
Across the Southwest, 12 Regional Directors and their chapters have hosted 112 fundraising events so far this year, with an increase in net revenue of 14.75% year over year. We are especially excited to welcome eight new chapters that conducted their first-ever fundraising events, generating more than $247,000 in net revenue for RMEF.
Attendance remains one of the most important indicators of a successful event. Even the best-planned banquet needs people in the room to make it thrive. This year, 65% of Southwest events have seen attendance increases compared to last year, a testament to chapters that have embraced grassroots outreach and increased their visibility within their local communities. Those efforts are clearly paying off. Reno led the way with an increase of 164 attendees, while Albuquerque, Midland, Chico, and Elko each welcomed more than 100 additional guests compared to the previous year.
The region has also experienced significant growth in cash donations, posting a 45.4% increase over the first half of 2025. Much of this success can be attributed to stronger community engagement and the development of attractive table packages tailored to local supporters. Numerous chapters recorded impressive gains in this category, with Reno, Hobbs, Meeker, Ripon, Bishop, Montrose, Las Vegas, Woodland and Oklahoma River each increasing cash donations by more than $9,000 year over year.
These successes are driving meaningful results for conservation. Thanks to the efforts of our volunteers and supporters, the Southwest Region is on pace for a record fundraising year. Several chapters have posted exceptional gains in net revenue compared to 2025, including: Reno (+$95,601), Montrose (+$55,757), Meeker (+$49,121), Midland (+$45,349), Kings County (+$34,652), Safford (+$33,556) and Yreka (+$32,689). Each of these chapters achieved net revenue growth of more than $30,000, reflecting the commitment and passion of volunteers working to advance RMEF’s mission.
Equally important are the many chapters that may not make headlines for record-setting gains but continue to improve year after year through consistent effort and commitment. Across the region, volunteers are expanding their networks, recruiting new members, engaging local businesses and introducing more people to RMEF’s conservation mission. Those grassroots efforts remain the foundation of our success.
The Southwest Region made fantastic gains during the first half of 2026, and there is plenty of excitement for what lies ahead. To every volunteer who has already hosted an event, is preparing for one or is just beginning the planning process, thank you. Your dedication continues to make a lasting impact on conservation and the future of elk country.
On behalf of the Southwest Region, thank you to all RMEF volunteers across the nation. Your hard work, commitment and passion for our mission are deeply appreciated. We look forward to a strong second half of the year as we continue working together to deliver conservation, fellowship and fundraising success. Together, we are proving once again that when committed volunteers engage their communities, great things happen for elk country.