On September 20, 2025, the Arlington-Fairfax Chapter of the Izaak Walton League in Fairfax County, Virginia, hosted its annual Women On Target Instructional Shooting Clinic. This popular event brought together 45 women eager to shoot and deepen their understanding of owning, carrying, and operating firearms. The club, sprawling across 110 scenic acres, is known for its Olympic archery range and state-of-the-art indoor air gun range. Yet, this particular Saturday transcended mere target practice; it transformed into a launchpad for empowerment through the NRA program. A Curriculum to Support the Whole Shooter Women On Target clinics offer a distinctive experience as each event is tailored to fit the community's strengths and interests. It was not just about live-fire instruction; this clinic seamlessly integrated hands-on training with educational seminars that framed shooting within a broader context. Situated in a suburb near Washington, D.C., the Arlington-Fairfax chapter tapped into its vast pool of talent for an enriching curriculum. New shooters navigating firearm ownership enjoyed a Buying and Caring for Your First Handgun seminar, guiding them toward shooting independence, critical for those participating in a program that provides ammo and firearms. Instructors presented sections from NRAs Refuse To Be A Victim, covering critical safety lessons, while a retired judge demystified the legal landscape surrounding firearms in Virginia, discussing Firearms and the Law and Legal Aspects of Self-Defense. Even lunchtime was purposeful, with insights from a representative of the Virginia Outdoor Women program, which promotes practical skills in hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities for women. One-On-One Where it Counts The hallmark of Women On Target events is the hands-on, individualized coaching that characterized the Arlington-Fairfax clinic. This approach delivered tailored instruction across various shooting disciplines, including pistols, traditional rifles, AR-15s, shotguns, and field archery. For many participants, it marked their initial introduction to shooting sport, while local Armed Women of America members arrived to enhance their skills and meet like-minded women. One participant aptly noted that she could try the specific pistol she was considering purchasing, as it came with modifications she was interested in exploring. At the rifle station, attendees tested several traditional rifles and even a rare wall gun with instructors demonstrating the versatility of AR-15 platforms for shooters of different statures. Meanwhile, pistol instructors emphasized the essentials of marksmanship as clays shattered on the shotgun range, and field archery remains a quieter yet challenging experience for attendees. The clinic reinforced Arlington-Fairfax's role as a catalyst for growth. Women On Target has served as an important entry point for new shooters and has adeptly attracted new members to clubs and ranges, creating mentorship opportunities within the community. This year, leadership transitioned to Sarah Smith, who succeeded longtime director Pamela Meara, reflecting the program's continued evolution. Sarahs journey began in 2021 when she volunteered for administrative help and soon translated her passion for training into action as she certified in basic pistol instruction, eventually stepping onto the clinic line. Lois, a participant turned instructor from the previous year's Women On Target, shared her own experiences, highlighting that several AWA members participated actively. This highlighted the program's versatility: catering to both novice shooters and seasoned women looking to expand their skills. Conclusion Women On Target at Arlington-Fairfax successfully turned non-shooters into active participants in the shooting sports community through effective coaching, informed discussions on safety and legality, and a recognition of the outdoor shooting culture. The event proved to be more than a clinic; it represented a movement within the NRA community. On that weekend in September, 45 women left with bullseye targets and a profound understanding of what it means to possess and utilize firearmsnot only for sport but also for sustenance and self-defense.