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.
After taking a year off in 2025, the Eastern Sierra Chapter in Bishop, Calif., returned in a big way with its Big Game Banquet on May 30, 2026. Chapter Chair Brad Rowan (pictured above) and his team worked diligently to rebuild momentum, engage the community and deliver an outstanding event.
Their efforts brought 173 attendees through the doors, up from 130 in 2024. The banquet generated $73,000 in net revenue with a 56% net-to-gross ratio—more than doubling the $33,633 raised in 2024 and qualifying the chapter for the Trailblazer Award. Embracing grassroots fundraising, this group of dedicated volunteers engaged members and donors to raise more than $18,000 total, including $7,500 in event sponsorships and $10,513 in cash donations.
Excitement grew as attendees learned about a recently approved local grant supporting the installation of a wildlife water guzzler on U.S. Forest Service land. That tangible example of RMEF’s mission at work, combined with tremendous support from local businesses and clubs, helped energize the room.
Southern California Regional Director Sebastian Garcia credits Rowan’s exceptional dedication to the mission and leadership of the chapter for its success.
“Brad is a good man to work with,” Garcia said. “He will continue to do big things at the local and state level with RMEF.”
Congratulations to Brad and the entire Eastern Sierra Chapter for an exceptional comeback and a Trailblazer-worthy event that will benefit elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage.