The world of firearms can be intimidating and confusing for women. Much of the training and resources available to new shooters have been directed toward men and the needs of women are often overlooked.
The Cape has a new organization, TWAW Cape Coral, geared toward mentoring women shooters.
The Well-Armed Woman (TWAW) was founded by Carrie Lightfoot in 2012. It is the premier resource for women gun owners and enthusiasts. Currently, with over 360 chapters and 11,000 members across 49 states, TWAW provides women a safe and comfortable environment to learn about gun ownership, discuss issues surrounding the topic and provides comprehensive training.
The Cape Coral Chapter of TWAW began in October 2017 with Shelia Rosario as the leader and Beth Granger and Sharon Salerno as co-leaders.
Mrs. Rosario learned the basics of shooting from her husband Hector, Ret. Army Sergeant Major, five years ago. She became interested in shooting with other women and sought out a national women’s organization, quickly discovering TWAW. In 2013, she founded the second TWAW chapter in Indiana. In 2014 she became the TWAW State Leader helping mentor new chapter leaders.
Mrs. Rosario is an NRA instructor certified to teach the Basics of Pistol Shooting, Personal Protection in the Home and Home Firearm Safety. She is a TWAW certified instructor, as well as a US Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) Instructor and Training Counselor. She is a Refuse to Be a Victim instructor and is an NRA certified Chief Range Safety Officer. Mrs. Rosario enjoys teaching other women the basics of shooting and how to be safe in their homes, workplace and in public.
Co-leaders Beth Granger and Sharon Salerno are NRA certified Range Safety Officers and NRA certified instructors of the Basics of Pistol Shooting.
The Cape Coral Chapter of TWAW meets at Shoot Center, 1122 Delprado Blvd. S, the first Monday of the month from 6 -8:30 pm and the first Tuesday of the month from 12:30- 3 pm. Visitors are invited to attend one meeting. If they chose to become a member, the cost is $50 per year. Interested women can join online at www.twawshootingchapters.org.
The TWAW meetings are more than just range time. They provide a comprehensive program that includes certified instructors, training, practice time, interactive discussion, guest speakers and exclusive events. All meetings are geared toward helping Educate, Equip and Empower women shooters as they endeavor to become their own self-protectors.
Membership in TWAW is recognized at all national chapters allowing members to transfer membership should they move or are traveling.
It is not required to own a firearm or have a concealed carry permit to attend the meetings. Through instruction at the meetings, leaders can provide assistance in helping women select a firearm that is right for them. Shoot Center has a large selection of firearms for women to rent and try out before making the final decision on which firearm to purchase.
Anyone over the age 21 and legally able to purchase a firearm can join the Cape Coral Chapter.
To learn more, visit www.twawshootingchapters.org or contact Shelia Rosario at twawcapecoral@gmail.com or 317-828-0785.
