Two Jackson Women Start Organization To Promote Gun Education

A new organization has been formed in Jackson County that offers gun safety classes for women.

Women On Target was founded by Linda Lewis and Tara Henderson. Lewis said the introduction of Governor Bill Lee’s permitless carry showed the need for handgun education.

“There’s really not anyway for ladies to get training around this area,” Lewis said. “I think there is one place in Cookeville, and we just wanted to do something to help the Jackson County women get better training.”

Lewis said the next training comes October 23rd where participants can shot with two safety range officers. Henderson said the organization wants to achieve two things: an understanding of guns and confidence in firearm use.

“A lot of women, their husbands go to work in Cookeville and even Nashville, and they are home alone a lot,” Henderson said. “They need the ability to be able to protect themselves.”

Lewis said the first class received healthy support with 27 participants. Lewis said the focus was what to do during an active shooter situation.

“Two THP Officers presented active shooter training,” Lewis said. “Active shooter training on what to do like being in Walmart and hear gun shots. What do you do? The two officers did an excellent presentation, and we all felt like we learned quite a bit.”

Lewis said the organization tries to create a comfortable environment by using women instructors. Lewis said a $10 fee will be required for October’s class. One can contact Lewis or Henderson at (931)-678-4752.