State officials say hunters and anglers in Illinois have raised more than $700,000 for youth outdoors programs since 2006.

The money comes through a donation when hunters and anglers are buying licenses.

The Illinois Conservation Foundation said in a news release Thursday that the money has stretched past $726,000. The goal is $1 million.

The foundation's executive director is Eric Schmidt. He credits hunters and anglers for supporting youth.

The group is a charitable partner of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. It serves more than 6,000 children a year at a conservation center outside Rockford.