Did you check Joe Moell K0OV's website at
www.HomingIn.com?He has lists of contacts around the country. If he doesn't
have a listing in your area, an email to him might give
you some leads.
The reflector ardf@kkn.net is another good resource for
this sort of inquiry.
Any chance you can attend the National ARDF Championships
in Boston? (Joe's announcement should be a few posts below
this one, or check his web site.) That is a good opportunity
to learn from some of the top competitors in the country.
Lack of activity is a problem in many areas, however.
Here in Oregon we're lucky to have a practice once or
twice a year, which really isn't enough. Having at least
one other person to help (at least to hide the transmitters
for you) is a big help: with two hunters you can each
hide a transmitter then look for the other one.
While Oregon isn't exactly in the midwest, let me know
if I can be of assistance.