Hoping to pass along their joy of the great outdoors to others, the Swift Current Legion Hall was alive with those who take pleasure in the natural world raising funds.

On Saturday night the Swift Current Wildlife Federation hosted their 28th Annual Fundraiser from the community event space, raising money to allow them to further their cause.

Funds were being raised at the show from both live and silent auctions, a raffle, and other draws. While totals raised are not yet known, they are expected to be in excess of $40,000.

Dave Gloeckler, fundraising chairman for the Swift Current Wildlife Federation, said that they have a few programs which ensure that everyone is encouraged to enjoy what the prairies have to offer.

"We're trying to do this wheelchair accessible fish pond on the south side [of Swift Current], so a good chunk of that money we made this year will be going to that, and also we've got a pheasant raising facility, we do bursaries."

The organization also lends a hand in supporting the National Archery in Schools Program (NAST) in Swift Current.

Gloeckler said its a two way street of support.

"Last night we had the NASP people at the Comp school [Swift Current Comprehensive High School] the teacher [Chad Martens] and some of the kids who take the archery program, we had them do our coat check, and he [Martens] got up and gave a speech and it was very good."

The federation also recently bought a NASP kit for the Gull Lake School as well.

Through the NASP program, they hope to spread their love of the outdoors by using the target practice archery to promote bow hunting.

Speaking on their conservation efforts, Gloeckler also stated that the funds raised at the show would help to leave the environment better off for future generations.

"The nicest thing is if we could get into more habitat or buying habitat before it disappears," the fundraising chairman with the organization for around 27 years said. "We're all aware there's a lot of us wildlife people and conservation people, and if we all work together it will be a lot nicer."

The organization also tried to support local businesses by auctioning of local products.