Kayli DeVusser (shoot founder, right) and her cousin (one of many shoot beneficiaries, left).
Sixteen-year-old Kayli DeVusser saw the growing challenges of those facing Type 1 diabetes, so she took action. As a winning shotgun shooter, she decided to give back to the community by starting “Pull For Hope,” an annual shooting sports event that benefits children fighting Type 1 diabetes.
DeVusser currently serves as the first vice president of the Early FFA Chapter and a vice president of the Cross Timbers District in Texas. While serving in those positions, she still finds time to practice her love of shooting sports. DeVusser not only has a heart for sharp shooting — she earned the 4-H state champion title and is a National Sporting Clays champion — but also for helping her community.
However, her achievements don’t stop there; she has also won grand champion at the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Though the titles and competition wins are great, DeVusser’s compassionate heart and love of family comes first.
At 3 years old, Devusser’s cousin was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Since then, it has been her goal to fight the fight and support him — and others — in any way she can. With her compassion and determination, “Pull for Hope” was born. This sporting clays event is held at Brownwood Claybird Club every year and has raised $18,000 to date. This year, the fourth event is scheduled for Nov. 8, 2025. All proceeds from the annual fundraiser benefit Breakthrough T1D.
A team competes in the “Pull for Hope” event.
Breakthrough T1D (formerly known as JDRF) is a global organization dedicated to curing and preventing Type 1 diabetes and improving the lives of those affected by it through research, advocacy and support. Right now, Type 1 diabetes does not have a cure, but the team at Breakthrough T1D is giving it everything it’s got to help affected children.
Alongside her many achievements, DeVusser’s true success lies in giving back. She gives us a great example of “Living to Serve.”
