Thornton comes to the Wild Sheep Foundation with 11 years of experience building up the business model of Dallas Safari Club. During his tenure there, membership grew 600 percent, fundraising net revenues increased 700 percent, cash reserves for the organization went up 800 percent and grants to mission programs increased 1,000 percent. Thornton says he intends to enhance the Wild Sheep Foundation's business model in like fashion. His first two goals are to double the membership through local chapters and to increase participation and revenues at the next Western Hunting & Conservation Expo to be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, February 5-8, 2009.
When asked about the reason for the organization's name change, Thornton said that the new name better reflects the expanding focus of the organization beyond the borders of North America. He says the Foundation's plans are to export its successful sheep conservation programs overseas. To accomplish this, Thornton says the Wild Sheep Foundation has partnered in Europe with the CIC (International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation) to identify species and areas where they can develop focused conservation projects, working with local authorities and local people to increase awareness and cooperation for the benefit of wild sheep and goats. The CIC's scientific knowledge and connections will help the Wild Sheep Foundation develop what Thornton says is a surgical strategic approach to maximize results in specific areas.
Also, Thornton says the Wild Sheep Foundation is seeking new ways to recognize mountain hunters for their achievements internationally. To accomplish that, the Wild Sheep Foundation will be working closely with Rowland Ward to expand that organization's record-keeping in the realm of international sheep and goat hunting.........(continued)
