For more than two decades, the Arizona Elk Society (AES) has been doing more than protecting elk populations.
The organization has become one of Arizona’s largest wildlife conservation nonprofits, restoring habitat, mentoring youth, supporting veterans, and building a volunteer network that continues to expand its impact across the state.
Founded in 2001 by 34 dedicated volunteers, the Arizona Elk Society was built on a simple idea: keep conservation efforts local and ensure Arizona’s wildlife, lands, and communities directly benefit from the work being done.
“We wanted to concentrate our efforts and keep 100% of the successes and funds in Arizona.” — Stephen Clark
Arizona Wildlife Conservation That Goes Beyond Elk
Although elk remain central to the organization’s identity, the Arizona Elk Society’s impact reaches far beyond one species.
Their wildlife habitat restoration projects improve ecosystems for countless species while strengthening watersheds throughout Arizona.
Some of their largest conservation efforts include:
- Restoring thousands of acres of grasslands by removing invasive juniper trees
- Improving watersheds through habitat restoration projects
- Rebuilding aging wildlife water systems throughout Arizona forests
- Hauling millions of gallons of water to dry areas for wildlife
- Partnering with state and federal agencies to improve habitat at scale
These projects rely heavily on volunteers.
“We have a huge volunteer base that is dedicated to our programs and makes everything we do a success.” — Stephen Clark
Teaching the Next Generation Through Outdoor Education
Long-term conservation requires future leaders.
That’s why the Arizona Elk Society invests heavily in youth outdoor programs that teach practical skills while building a deeper understanding of conservation.
Their youth programs include:
- Wildlife conservation camps
- Firearms safety training
- Archery instruction
- First aid education
- Mentored turkey and elk hunting camps
- Outdoor leadership experiences
One of the organization’s proudest accomplishments isn’t measured in acres restored or gallons hauled.
It’s seeing former campers come back.
“Looking back and seeing the youth from our camps become volunteers along with their families is very rewarding.” — Stephen Clark
Heroes Rising Outdoors: Supporting Arizona Veterans Through Nature
One of AES’s most impactful programs is Heroes Rising Outdoors.
The program provides wounded veterans with opportunities to reconnect through hunting, fishing, camping, equine therapy, and outdoor experiences designed to build community and support healing.
Programs include:
- All-expenses-paid guided big game hunts
- Veteran camping trips
- Arizona fishing experiences
- Equine therapy programs
- Peer support through shared outdoor experiences
For many participants, the outdoors provides something difficult to find elsewhere: peace, connection, and camaraderie.
“Hearing from veterans and their families about how our program is changing and improving their lives is incredibly rewarding.” — Stephen Clark
Building a Conservation Movement Through Community
Arizona Elk Society’s growth has been powered by people.
Today, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and agency partnerships continue expanding the organization’s reach and effectiveness.
Their work now supports numerous state and federal agencies while creating measurable improvements to Arizona wildlife habitat.
What started with 34 volunteers has become a statewide conservation movement.
Why Quality Merchandise Matters for Nonprofits
For outdoor nonprofits, merchandise is more than fundraising.
It builds identity and increases awareness.
Arizona Elk Society uses custom leather patch hats as part of that strategy.
“Every hat that we have had made has been instant best sellers.” — Stephen Clark
The organization says quality matters because supporters actually wear products they enjoy and every time they do, the mission gains visibility.
“Every hat we do stands out in crowds and people notice them, so our name recognition increases every time people wear our hats.” — Stephen Clark
Stephen also believes organizations should prioritize quality from the beginning.
“Your customers and potential customers will appreciate quality—don’t skimp.” — Stephen Clark
What’s Next for Arizona Elk Society?
The goal is simple:
Continue growing.
Continue expanding impact.
Continue telling the story.
“Continue to grow and tell our story to more and more people.” — Stephen Clark
As Arizona continues facing challenges around habitat management, water availability, and preserving outdoor traditions, organizations like Arizona Elk Society remain a critical part of protecting what makes the state unique.
Learn more or support their mission at: www.arizonaelksociety.org
